Ways to reduce your water heater's energy consumption

Water heaters can save you a lot of money if you are in good hands. A plumbing company that sells, repairs or maintains water heaters recommends these suggestions to reduce energy consumption with your water heater.

Shop for the best water heater

Yes, shop around! It couldn't be easier, thanks to hundreds of companies that compete with one another in the appliance market. You will find that different companies quote widely different prices for exactly similar product. A good and reliable company could save you hundreds of dollars a year in energy bill. Start your search at your local store. Then check the products on the internet and compare them. Don't settle for the heater based solely on the price; performance and warranty are very important during selection. It is remotely possible that some day the cheapest one will cost you more than the most expensive one in the market in repairs and maintenance.

Reducing thermostat

A thermostat dictates how hot your water from faucet is, whether you know it or not. Most water heaters come with a standard thermostat set to 140 degrees. An ideal temperature recommended by most energy departments for a family of four taking shower for five minutes each is 120 degrees. After a couple of uses, you will know what temperature works for you or your family. By varying the thermostat reading from time to time and season to season, you will be saving at least 15 percent on the energy bill.

Selecting a good shower-head

While selecting a shower-head make sure that the flow rate is less than 2.5 gallons per minute for maximum efficiency. If you are in a humid climate you may want to make use of laminar flow shower-head for less steam and moisture.

Fixing leaks in water heaters

Hot water use as well as your monthly bill can be significantly reduced when leaks are fixed. How much you can save depends on what type of leak is present in the unit. For example, a leak from the base of the unit at the rate of one drip per second can cost you at least $1 per month.

Insulating the unit

Plumbers recommend insulating water heating units all the time. Adding insulation is not only inexpensive but will lower the energy use to a considerable level. It will also reduce heat loss by as much as 45 percent if done correctly.

Is the water heater in your St. Michael home in need of maintenance? Call B & D Plumbing, Heating & A/C at (763) 497-2290 and schedule a service call today!