 |
 |
 |
Seldom is a home water heater given a second thought, but it can account for up to 25 percent of the energy consumption in a home.
Here are a few ways you can increase the efficiency of your water heater:
- For each 10ºF (or 5.5ºC) reduction in water temperature set point, you can save 3 to 5 percent in energy costs. 'Hot' settings are 140ºF (60ºC) or above. 120ºF (49ºC) will almost always be sufficient and will improve the life of your system.
- If you have an electric water heater, you can save an additional 5 to 12 percent with a timer that turns the water heater off at night. (A self-installed, $60 timer may pay for itself in one year.) You may also have the option of heating water during off peak hours at reduced power rates. Water stays hot for 8 hours in a typical tank.
- A water heater should have an insulation value of at least R-24. Properly insulated tanks can save 4 to 9 percent of water heating costs. A tank that's warm to the touch needs additional insulation.
- Consider installing low-flow fixtures, and purchase an energy-efficient dishwasher and clothes washer. Or better yet, discuss shower habits with the family and raise awareness about the impact of long, hot showers on energy consumption.
