If your home is equipped with a traditional storage tank water heater, you are probably losing a significant amount of energy and paying higher utility costs than necessary. However, with these five simple steps, you can reduce water-heating bills substantially without sacrificing comfort or spending a fortune on home improvements.
Lower Your Thermostat’s Temperature Setting
Most manufacturers pre-set their water heaters to 140 degrees F, which not only costs you extra in utility costs; it also presents a scalding hazard, especially in households with children, elderly and/or disabled individuals.
By adjusting your water heater down to 120 degrees, your family will be protected from burns while you save on your utility bills.
Reduce Your Household’s Hot Water Usage
With modern low-flow showerheads and faucet aerators, you can reduce your household’s hot water usage without any reduction in comfort. These inexpensive, simple-to-install devices are one of the easiest ways you can reduce water-heating bills.
Drain the Sediment From Your Tank
By draining your water heater’s tank and flushing out accumulated sediment two or three times a year, your unit will run more efficiently, lowering utility costs. This simple procedure can be carried out in under an hour and requires little more than a garden hose to complete. Look for specific instructions for your type of water heater.
Insulate Hot Water Pipes
Pre-fabricated insulating sleeves designed to slip over exposed sections of hot water pipes can be purchased inexpensively and will reward you with energy savings. Be sure to insulate all easy-to-reach areas of piping, especially those that pass through unconditioned spaces. However, don’t worry about sections that pass through walls or other areas that are difficult to access.
Insulate Your Hot Water Tank
Unless you have a newer unit, your storage-tank water heater will have a much easier job if you purchase and install a water heater insulating blanket or jacket. Savings will increase if your unit is located in an unconditioned location within your home.
Homeowners in the Tampa area interesting in learning more about how to reduce water-heating bills should contact us at Senica Air Conditioning, Inc., where we have been providing top quality service since 1992.
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