Water heater energy drain: turn it off and watch the savings flow
What To Know
- Now that we have a better understanding of the cost of water heating, let’s examine the potential energy savings of turning off your water heater.
- If you are not using hot water for a period of time, such as during the day when you are at work or at night when you are sleeping, turning off your water heater can save you energy.
- If you have a solar water heater, you can turn off your electric or gas water heater during the day when the sun is heating the water.
Water heaters are essential appliances in our homes, providing us with warm water for showers, baths, and other household tasks. However, they can also be significant energy consumers. One common question homeowners have is whether turning off their water heater can save them money on their energy bills. In this blog post, we will explore the answer to this question and provide you with insights into the energy-saving potential of turning off your water heater.
The Cost of Water Heating
Before we delve into the energy savings associated with turning off your water heater, it is essential to understand the cost of water heating. The cost of heating water varies depending on the type of water heater you have, the fuel source used, and your local energy rates.
- Electric water heaters: Electric water heaters are typically the most expensive to operate, as electricity is a relatively expensive energy source.
- Gas water heaters: Gas water heaters are generally more efficient than electric water heaters, but the cost of gas can also fluctuate.
- Solar water heaters: Solar water heaters use the sun’s energy to heat water, making them the most energy-efficient option. However, they can be more expensive to install than other types of water heaters.
The Energy Savings of Turning Off Your Water Heater
Now that we have a better understanding of the cost of water heating, let’s examine the potential energy savings of turning off your water heater.
- Standby losses: Water heaters lose heat even when they are not in use. This is known as standby loss. Turning off your water heater eliminates these losses, saving you energy.
- Reduced water usage: When your water heater is off, you are less likely to use hot water. This is because you have to wait for the water to heat up before you can use it. As a result, you may use less water overall, which can also save you money on your water bill.
How to Turn Off Your Water Heater
Turning off your water heater is a relatively simple process. Here are the steps:
1. Locate the water heater‘s circuit breaker or fuse and turn it off.
2. Turn off the gas supply to the water heater.
3. Close the cold water inlet valve to the water heater.
4. Open a hot water faucet to release any remaining pressure in the tank.
When to Turn Off Your Water Heater
To maximize the energy savings of turning off your water heater, it is essential to know when to do it. Here are some situations where it makes sense to turn off your water heater:
- When you are away on vacation: If you are going on vacation for an extended period, turning off your water heater can save you a significant amount of energy.
- When you are not using hot water: If you are not using hot water for a period of time, such as during the day when you are at work or at night when you are sleeping, turning off your water heater can save you energy.
- When you have a solar water heater: If you have a solar water heater, you can turn off your electric or gas water heater during the day when the sun is heating the water.
Other Energy-Saving Tips for Water Heaters
In addition to turning off your water heater, there are other things you can do to save energy and reduce your water heating costs:
- Set the temperature to 120 degrees Fahrenheit: The ideal temperature for your water heater is 120 degrees Fahrenheit. Setting the temperature any higher will waste energy and increase your water heating costs.
- Insulate your water heater: Insulating your water heater can help reduce standby losses and save you energy.
- Consider a tankless water heater: Tankless water heaters heat water on demand, eliminating the need for a storage tank. This can save you significant energy and reduce your water heating costs.
Key Points: Unlocking the Energy Savings of Turning Off Your Water Heater
Turning off your water heater can be an effective way to save energy and reduce your water heating costs. By understanding the cost of water heating, the energy savings associated with turning off your water heater, and the best times to do it, you can make informed decisions about your water heating habits. By implementing these tips, you can unlock the energy-saving potential of turning off your water heater and enjoy the benefits of lower energy bills.
What You Need to Know
Q: How much money can I save by turning off my water heater?
A: The amount of money you can save by turning off your water heater depends on several factors, including the type of water heater you have, the fuel source used, and your local energy rates. However, you can expect to save between 5% and 10% on your energy bills.
Q: How long should I leave my water heater off for?
A: You can leave your water heater off for as long as you want. However, if you are going to be away for an extended period, it is best to turn off the water heater and drain the tank to prevent freezing.
Q: Will turning off my water heater damage it?
A: No, turning off your water heater will not damage it. However, it is essential to turn off the water heater and drain the tank if you are going to be away for an extended period to prevent freezing.
