As temperatures drop in the South Bay Peninsula area, energy bills are sure to rise. You can help reign in higher energy bills this winter by bundling up your water heater. After all, water heating accounts for as much as 20 percent of the energy bills in the average home. So, use these helpful tips to bundle up your water heating system and save!
INSULATING WRAPS
You have ample insulation in your attic to help keep you comfortable and to save energy, right? Your water heating system and pipes could use some insulation to help save energy, too. Bundle up your water heater with an insulation jacket or blanket specific made specifically for your unit model.
Fiberglass and foam insulation wraps and sleeves are available at your home store for your pipes. By insulating your water heater and pipes, you substantially cut standby heat loss, reduce waiting time for hot water, lower your energy bill and save water.
MORE WAYS TO SAVE ENERGY
Water heaters typically last 8 to 12 years, depending on usage and the quality of care you provide. By scheduling regular water heater maintenance, you can extend the service life of your unit and increase energy savings. Following are more ways to save energy with your water heating system:
- Drain:To help prevent sediment and other contaminants from building up on the bottom of the storage tank, drain about one gallon of water every few months at the drain bib. Fully empty your storage tank at least once a year. Remove the drain bib, and use a thin brush to clean the bottom of the tank.
- Temperature:Water heaters are delivered from the manufacturer set at very high temperatures. By turning back hot water temperature from 140 degrees to 120 degrees, you may curb water heating costs by as much as 10 percent — and reduce the risk of scalding.
For more expert water heater advice or to schedule service, contact Valley Heating, Cooling, Electrical. Also, visit our website for more in-depth information on HVAC and water heating topics, or just give us a call today at (408) 868-5500.
Our goal is to help educate our customers in the South Bay Peninsula and Santa Cruz areas of California about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems).