Save Energy and Money through Modifying Water Heater Temperature
Changing your water heater temperature settings could be the answer to your growing electric bills. In fact, it can be used to save energy. Water heaters consume the most energy at home compared to other appliances. You could be spending up to $400 a year in utility charges just on your water heater alone.
Because of this, manufacturers are coming up with products that can minimize the energy consumed by water heaters. There are water heater timers and insulating materials that are both effective in cutting back energy consumption. Then again, if you do not want to spend for such, you can always apply simple and easy to implement changes to your water heater temperature setting.
How does this work?
By simply lowering the thermostat setting on your water heater, you can save critical amounts of energy. For every 10 degrees Fahrenheit reduction in water temperature, you can save up to 5% of energy.
Did you know?
While some water heater manufacturers set thermostats at 140 degrees Fahrenheit, the average household requires only 120 degrees Fahrenheit. By reducing 20 degrees Fahrenheit, you can save up to 10% of energy. Moreover, a water temperature of 140 degrees Fahrenheit can potentially bring about certain hazards and risks, like scalding.
Lowering your water temperature to 120 degrees Fahrenheit can also delay the process of corrosion and mineral buildup in your water heater and pipes. This contributes in making your water heater last longer and function at its optimal efficiency.
How do I maneuver the thermostat?
Water heater manuals contain instructions that will guide you in maneuvering the thermostat. For a gas storage water heater, the thermostat dial is located near the bottom of the tank of the gas valve. For electric water heaters, the thermostat dial is usually behind screw-on plates or panels. As a precaution, always shut off electricity to your water heater before attempting to remove the plates, to prevent you from getting electrocuted. Also remember that an electric water heater may have two thermostats – one for each upper and lower heating elements.
After you have pinpointed the location of your thermostat, you can adjust it to a lower setting. Make sure to note down the beginning and adjusted temperature for future reference. You can then proceed to verifying if the temperature has indeed dropped by checking the temperature of the water from the tap farthest from your water heater. You may have to perform a number of adjustments to get the exact temperature you want since most thermostat dials are inexact.
Various Tips on Using Your Water Heater
Before setting off for a vacation, make sure to set the thermostat to the lowest temperature or completely shut off your water heater. You can do this by switching off the circuit breaker to it.
For maximum efficiency, you can use a temperature range of 130-140 degrees Fahrenheit if you are using a dishwasher without a booster heater.
Overall, if you are concerned with the growing numbers on your utility bills but you’re not ready to spend for water heater timers and insulating materials, lowering down the water heater temperature setting is the choice for you.
