The cost of heating water in your home is a significant expense. In fact, the U.S. Department of Energy estimates that water heating accounts for 18% of the average home’s utility costs. Luckily, there are several tactics you can use to lower the money spent on operating Water Heaters in Arlington Heights. Below are some easy ways you can increase your water heater’s efficiency and dramatically reduce the cost of heating your water.
If It’s Aging, Replace It
Yesterday’s water heaters are far less efficient than their modern day counterparts. If your water heater is 10 years old or more, it could be financially beneficial to consider a replacement. A new, high-efficiency model will decrease your utility costs drastically, and you may be eligible for tax reimbursements if the water heater you choose is Energy Star compliant.
Lower The Temperature
Setting your water heater temperature to 125 degrees is sufficient to heat your water properly and kill germs effectively. Unfortunately, most people don’t realize that the default setting on their heater can be as high as 145 degrees. A simple switch to a lower temperature can result in a cost savings of up to 20%.
Invest in Professional Maintenance
According to the U.S. Department of Energy, regular maintenance on you water heater can greatly increase its life span and maximize your energy savings. A professional can check your system for possible problems, flush your tank and replace anode rods if necessary. These inexpensive check-ups can save you lots of money in the long run.
Insulate
If you have an older hot water tank, you may want to invest in a hot water blanket for insulation purposes. If your tank feels hot to the touch, there’s a good possibility you could save money by using one of these inexpensive devices. If your water tank is newer and well-protected, you can still increase its efficiency by insulating your hot water pipes. According to Energy Star, this simple tweak will raise your water’s temperature by as much as 4 degrees and can decrease your energy costs in the meantime.
Your water heater is an essential part of your home, but it doesn’t have to be an expensive one. Follow the tips above to decrease the energy costs associated with your home’s water heater and next month’s utility bills may be a pleasant surprise.
