Energy Efficient Water Heating Systems: Tips & Upgrades | Energy Upgrade California
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Water Heating

Water heating is the second largest energy expense in your home, accounting for about 18% to 25% of your energy use. The average family spends between $400 and $600 on water heating each year. As a result, employing energy-saving strategies and choosing an energy-efficient water heater can help save you money.

Water heaters have a life expectancy that varies from 10 to 20 years. Periodic maintenance can extend the life of your water heater and minimize efficiency loss. To make sure you have enough hot water when you want it, calculate your household’s peak-hour hot water demand and use that to determine what water heater size to get.

To learn how to calculate peak-hour hot water demand, you can visit sites such as Energy.gov for more information.

Tips

For lowering your heating bills

Energy Efficient Water Heating Systems: Tips & Upgrades - Drip

1

The simplest thing to do: Use less hot water!

Energy Efficient Water Heating Systems: Tips & Upgrades - Shower

2

Install low-flow showerheads and faucets.

Energy Efficient Water Heating Systems: Tips & Upgrades - Solar heater

3

Buy the most energy-efficient model available, and consider installing a solar water heater.

Energy Efficient Water Heating Systems: Tips & Upgrades - Washing machine

4

Wash your clothes in cold water (they’ll come out just as clean).

Energy Efficient Water Heating Systems: Tips & Upgrades - Temp down

5

Turn down the thermostat on your water heater and set it to 120°F.

Energy Efficient Water Heating Systems: Tips & Upgrades - Leaky pipe

6

Fix any leaks; even one drip per second can cost up to $1 a month.

Energy Efficient Water Heating Systems: Tips & Upgrades - Fan

7

When replacing exhaust fans, consider installing high-efficiency, low-noise models.

Energy Efficient Water Heating Systems: Tips & Upgrades - Insulation

8

Follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for ways to insulate your water heater tank and pipes.

Select an ENERGY STAR®–certified water heater and products to ensure energy efficiency and help reduce water and heating costs. Visit your local energy provider website to see which energy-efficient appliances and products are best for your home.