Uncategorized

Although it’s a good idea to keep your water usage to a reasonable level, it’s the energy used to heat the water that can greatly increase your energy usage each month. What you need to do is learn how to reduce water heating bills, especially now that winter is upon us. We’d put our money on these tips:

  • Lower your water usage — This is a no-brainer. If you want to heat less water, then you simply need to use less water. This will also help you lower your costs for water. A great way to accomplish this is to switch to low-flow showerheads, faucets, and toilets.
  • Lower the water heater’s thermostat — Most water heaters arrive at your home set to the default of its highest setting, which is typically 140 degrees. If possible, turn this down to 120 degrees and test its temperature using an actual thermostat after a few hours rather than trust the system’s thermostat. You might find you’re more comfortable using the lower setting, and you’ll certainly save more money.
  • Insulate exposed hot-water pipes — When your pipes are exposed, some of the heat will leak out, lowering the temperature of your water. You can prevent this by insulating these pipes with self-sealing sleeves, which are very inexpensive.
  • Insulate your tank — Newer water heaters are already insulated, but if you have an older model, use an insulating blanket to help keep heat from escaping. Models with an R-value of less than 24 are not insulated. This practice can reduce heat loss by as much as a whopping 45 percent.
  • Drain the sediment — Sediment will build up in the bottom of the tank, lowering efficiency. To drain it, turn off the water and power (or set your gas unit to “pilot”) and connect a garden hose to the base’s spigot. Then point the other end of the hose toward the ground, lift the release valve, and turn on the spigot to begin the flow. (Make sure you’re pointing the hose somewhere you don’t mind water flowing, of course.)

For more expert advice on ways to reduce water heating bills, or any other home comfort questions, contact the friendly professionals at Pipe Works Services We’ve been serving the HVAC needs of Union, West Orange, Morristown, Westfield, Basking Ridge, Short Hills, Berkeley Heights, Florham Park, New Providence, Millington, Millburn, and the neighboring towns and cities.

company icon