Why Is Your Water Heater Costing You So Much?

Before diving into tips for reducing water heater costs, it’s important to understand why this appliance may be costing you so much money in the first place. There are a few common culprits that can contribute to this, including:

• Age: Older water heaters are usually less efficient than newer models. As they age, insulation around the water heater may start to deteriorate, allowing heat to escape.
• Sizing: Water heaters need to be the right size for your home. If they are too large, they are likely to waste energy by heating more water than necessary. If they are too small, they are probably overcompensating and working harder than they should.
• Sediment Buildup: Mineral deposits can accumulate at the bottom of the tank over time, reducing efficiency and shortening the water heater’s lifespan.
• Leaks: Even small water heater leaks can lead to significant water and energy waste.
• Incorrect Temperature Settings: If you keep your water heater at a temperature that is too high, this is wasting energy and can also become a safety concern.

How to Cut Water Heater Costs

Knowing how to reduce water heater costs can save you a lot of money over time and keep your unit working efficiently for many years to come.

     1. Lower the Temperature in Your Tank’s Thermostat

One of the simplest ways to reduce water heater costs is to lower its temperature settings. It’s recommended to keep your water heater temperature between 120 to 140 degrees Fahrenheit. Keeping the temperature closer to 120 will save you money and prevent potential scalding. As a general rule of thumb, anytime you lower the temperature by ten degrees, you can save three to five percent on your water bill.

To change the hot water heater temperature, start by determining the current water temperature. Don’t rely solely on the heater’s thermostat; instead, use a thermometer to check the hot water temperature at the farthest faucet from the heater.

When changing the temperature, if your water heater’s thermostat doesn’t have a numbered gauge, set it halfway between “low” and “medium.” After about a day, take the temperature of the tap water again, and continue adjusting until you reach your desired temperature.

     2. Reduce the Amount of Hot Water You Use

One surefire strategy to save money on hot water is to use it less. Fortunately, there are many ways to reduce the amount of hot water you use in your home. These include:

• Taking shorter showers
• Using cold water to wash laundry
• Installing a water heater timer
• Installing low-flow showerheads or new plumbing fixtures
• Fixing leaky faucets
• Using “economy” mode on your dishwasher, if available, and stopping any pre-washing of dishes

      3. Drain Sediment From the Tank

Water heater tanks naturally collect sediment and silt over time. This can affect the efficiency of the unit and prevent it from conserving energy.

It’s best to have a professional plumber drain the water heater tank. Often, this task can be done during regular water heater maintenance.

      4. Insulate Exposed Hot Water Pipes

Insulating hot water pipes in your home, especially in exposed areas like the basement, can prevent heat loss as the water travels to your faucets. By doing so, water will arrive at the faucet two to four degrees warmer than it would if the hot water pipes weren’t insulated.

If you’re unsure whether your hot water pipes are insulated or not, call a local plumber for a plumbing inspection. They can advise you on where you should insulate your pipes if needed.

     5. Schedule Regular Water Heater Maintenance

Regular maintenance is crucial for optimal water heater performance. To reduce water heater costs, we recommend scheduling maintenance at least once a year.

During a routine maintenance visit, a plumber will perform multiple tasks to ensure water heater efficiency and functionality. These typically include:

• Checking temperature settings
• Removing sediment from the tank
• Inspecting for leaks
• Checking the anode rod

     6. Consider a Water Heater Upgrade

While there are many ways to reduce water heater costs with the unit you already have, sometimes it’s better to upgrade. Instead of relying on constant repairs, consider installing a newer, more energy-efficient water heater.

Tankless water heaters can be a great option, as they only heat water on demand, reducing energy consumption. Energy-efficient tank-style water heaters are also available.

Are you looking for water heater maintenance or installation? At Gilmore, we provide water heater services to Sacramento residents. Contact us today to learn more.