Saving Energy With Your Water Heater
Save up to 40% when you switch your electric water heater to a gas water heater.
Your water heater works 24 hours a day to maintain a constant temperature. It can account for as much as 40% of your utility cost. So heating water efficiently and using it wisely can add up to big saving on your monthly energy bill. A combination of the conservation tips below can save you more than 20% on the water-heating portion of your bill.
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Don’t use the “hot” setting on your gas water heater thermostat. Turning it down to “warm” (about 120° F) can reduce gas consumption by up to 8%.
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Turn the setting down as far as it will go (usually counterclockwise) during non-use periods and reduce gas use up to 10%. Refer to your owner’s manual for detailed instructions. Using the ON/PILOT/OFF knob instead of the thermostat causes premature wear and is not recommended. |
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Replace your old gas water heater with a newer model and you’ll reduce gas usage by 20% thanks to improved tank insulation. |
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Repair water leaks promptly. A pinhole leak can waste more than 429 gallons of hot water each month!
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Insulate your water heater tank and pipes. Just 1-1/2 inches of extra insulation reduces heat loss and can cut gas energy use by 8%. |
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Every other year, flush water from the bottom drain of the water heater to remove sediment. Follow manufacturer’s instructions or contact a licensed plumbing contractor for assistance. |
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Install a flow restricter or a low-flow showerhead to minimize hot water use. |
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Take faster showers or use less than a full tub of water.. |
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Install aerators on your faucets. |
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Don’t let hot water run unnecessarily.
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