Posted by Stephanie in Customers often look for ways to trim monthly energy bills. Next to heating
& cooling, water heating accounts for the next largest chunk of your bill
(13%-16%). For this reason, it makes a lot of sense to direct considerable effort
toward improving water heating efficiency. If you have an electric water heater,
consider these ideas:
1.Set temperature appropriately
For each 10°F reduction in water temperature, you can save between 3%-5%
of your water heating costs.
120°F at the faucet is adequate for most homes unless you have an older
dishwasher without a booster heater.
Proper temperature slows mineral buildup and corrosion which helps your water
heater last longer and operate at its maximum efficiency.
Consult your owner’s guide for instructions and ALWAYS shut off the electricity
to the water heater before opening the panel. Electric water heaters may have
two thermostats – one for the upper and lower heating elements.
Mark the beginning and the adjusted temperatures on the thermostat dial for
future reference. After turning it down, check the temperature at the tap farthest
from the water heater with a thermometer. It should read 120°F. It may take
several adjustments to get it right.
2.Insulate your tank
Unless your tank already has an insulation value of R-24, adding insulation
to it can reduce standby losses and save around 4%-9% of your water heating
costs. If you don’t know your water heater’s R-value, touch it.
A tank that’s warm to the touch needs additional insulation.
Pre-cut “jackets” or blankets cost between $10-$20. Choose one with
an insulating value of at least R-8.
Consider placing a piece of rigid insulation – a bottom board –
under the tank. This helps prevent heat loss into the floor, saving another
4%-9% of water heating energy. Note: This is best done when installing a new
water heater.
3.Insulate your pipes
Insulating pipes can raise water temperature 2°F-4°F. This shortens
the wait for hot water when you turn on a faucet and allows for a lower water
temperature setting.
Insulate all accessible hot water pipes, especially within 3 feet of the water
heater. It’s also a good idea to insulate the cold water inlet pipes for
the first 3 feet.
Use quality pipe insulation taped, wired, or clamped every foot or two to secure
it to the pipe. When using pipe sleeves, seams should face down on the pipe.
4.When buying a new water heater, look for factory-installed heat traps
These valves allow water to flow into the water heater tank but prevent unwanted
flow out. They can be installed on older tanks but require professional installation.
5.Install a water heater timer to save an additional 5%-12% of water heating
energy
These timers turn your water heater off at night when you don’t use hot
water.
Cost $60 or more, but can pay for themselves in about one year.
For more tips and energy saving programs, go to Idaho Power dot com slash energy
efficiency.
