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Why Should I Replace my Water Heater?
Water heating accounts for nearly 15% of your home’s utility bill. If your water heater is more than 12 years old, consider replacing it with a new, high efficiency water heater. Due to new technology that reduces heat loss, newer units use 10–50% less energy than standard models. Do your research before you buy a new water heater to determine the right size, type and fuel source for your residence.
Popular options include a storage water heater, the most prevalent residential water heater in the U.S. It is also the least efficient because its consistently full heated tank is subject to what is called standby heat loss. A demand water heater is a more energy efficient choice. This tankless option uses electricity or gas to heat water instantaneously, thereby eliminating standby heat loss and reducing energy consumption 20 to 30%. Heat-pump water heaters are also an option, and use electricity to move heat around instead of generating heat directly. These systems have a high initial cost, but offer a possible savings of up to $200 annually.
The Energy Factor (EF) located on the ENERGYGUIDE label is the best indicator of a water heater’s efficiency. The higher the EF, the more efficient the unit. The U.S. Department of Energy is in the process of establishing an ENERGY STAR residential water heater program, so look for ENERGY STAR qualified water heaters in the near future.
To minimize your water heating energy bill on new and existing equipment:
• Lower the thermostat on your water heater; a setting of 120°F provides comfortable hot water for most uses.
• Insulate your hot-water storage tank and pipes, but be careful not to cover the thermostat.
• Insulate the first six feet of the hot and cold water pipes connected to the water heater.
• Conserve water whenever possible. For instance, take more showers than baths, as bathing uses most hot water in the average household.
For more information, as well as hot water saving tips, visit www.flexyourpower.org
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44-950 Eldorado Drive, Indian Wells, CA 92210-7497 Telephone: 760.346.2489 | Fax: 760.346.0407 |
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