Your water heater is one of the highly used appliances in your home, which is why it’s no surprise that it takes up a significant amount of your utility bills. Luckily, there are simple ways to improve the efficiency of your water heater and reduce your energy consumption. Keeley’s Plumbing, your seasoned plumber in Lombard, IL, shares some smart tips.
1. Turn Down the Temperature
Most manufacturers set water heater temperatures at 140 degrees by default. However, the Department of Energy (DOE) recommends adjusting the thermostat to 120 degrees or below to avoid scalding. Also, lowering the temperature every 10 degrees can save you up to 5% on your water heating bills.
2. Use Low-Flow Showerheads and Faucets
Low-flow fixtures are designed to conserve water by reducing the flow rate without affecting the water pressure. Low-flow faucets, for instance, discharge water at 1.5 gallons per minute (GPM), while their standard counterparts spill out water at 2.5 GPM. Our plumbing company will help you find and install the best low-flow fixtures for your home so you can start enjoying their benefits.
3. Install A Tankless Water Heater
A tankless water heater warms up water on-demand and shuts off when not in use. It’s more efficient than traditional models because there’s no need to keep the water in the storage tank hot for hours, even if you don’t need it. If your water heater is due for an upgrade, we will help you choose a tankless unit that suits your needs and budget and ensure that you get the most out of our plumbing services.
4. Insulate Your Water Heater Tank and Pipes
Hot water loses heat over time, but you can prevent this by insulating the tank and pipes. It’s an easy and inexpensive way to improve your water heater’s efficiency and minimize wear and tear. It also reduces the need for plumbing repairs.
5. Keep an Eye on Sediment Buildup
Hard water leaves sediment that settles at the bottom of the storage tank. This impairs the water heater’s efficiency and causes it to work harder than it should. When left neglected, sediment buildup can also cause pinhole leaks and lead to an emergency plumbing situation. Be sure to flush your water heater at least once or twice a year to steer clear of this problem.
Let Keeley’s Plumbing help you maximize the efficiency and service life of your water heater. Contact us today to schedule an appointment.