According to statistics from the DOE, or US Dept. of Energy, almost 20% of energy bills of every average American household is for water heating. As such, these costs can add up quite quickly, draining the wallets of Americans. But, there are numerous ways in which you can reduce these costs.
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How To Reduce Your Water Heating Costs With Water Heater Maintenance Raritan NJ
The fact is that you can reduce water heating costs significantly by taking action toward improving the efficiency of your water heater. The tips below are sure to help.
Flushing The Hot Water Tank Heater
Eventually, minerals that occur naturally in water, including magnesium and calcium, will settle in the hot water tank. Neglected, the added sediment will build up and cause the system to function less efficiently by using more energy. Simultaneously, the appliance will also, very likely, begin to exhibit common problems, like inconsistent water temperatures, as well as clogged pipes leading to a diminished water supply.
If clogging occurs, as a result of sediment buildup, the pressure can eventually cause the tank to explode. Therefore, it is in your best interest to hire a qualified plumber that will regularly flush out the water heater’s tank. For those who live in areas where there is hard water, it is highly recommended to invest in a water softener that helps to reduce limescale and mineral buildup over time.
Increase Energy Efficiency By Insulating The Water Heating System
Heat loss occurs when water flows from the system, through the pipes, and to the tap, so insulating the water pipes will make a huge difference. According to the DOE, by insulating the hot water pipes, it can increase water temperature by up to 4 degrees Fahrenheit, meaning you can turn down the hot water tank’s thermostat. In addition to that, insulated water pipes will reduce the likelihood of their freezing during wintertime. However, it is imperative to use fiberglass pipe-wrap for safety purposes, should the pipes be close to the flue. This fiberglass must be a minimum of an inch thick and it should not have a coated layer on it.
Insulate the hot water tank if you have this type of water heater system. The best and most cost-effective way to do this is to use specifically-designed insulative blankets, especially if your tank is not well insulated, something common with older tanks. Insulative blankets should be used if the tank is old, has an R-value up to 24, or is poorly insulated. These blankets are excellent at minimizing heat loss, and they are relatively inexpensive.
Be sure to call a plumber to carry this task out for you. They will ensure that it is done correctly and safely.
Plug Leaks In Your Water System
Check for and repair any leaks. This job is not for the average consumer. Therefore, you should hire a plumber with experience in dealing with hot water plumbing systems. If your hot water plumbing system leaks, it will significantly affect the efficiency of the water heater.
A plumber with experience will conduct an inspection that will also encompass the temperature gauge and pressure relief values of your system. Moreover, the plumber will ensure that the system works perfectly right to the faucets and shower heads. The hot water plumbing system that is completely intact and without any leaks will work efficiently. Therefore, there will be no hot water waste in your home.
Save Hot Water & Reduce Energy Costs
Reducing hot water consumption is the easiest method in reducing energy costs and improving the efficiency of the water heater. It’s really simple math. The more hot water that you use, the more energy that you will require to heat that water. Therefore, homeowners can achieve these goals by purchasing energy efficient appliances, using the dishwasher economy setting and reducing those long showers. Another way to reduce hot water costs is to turn down your water heater’s thermostat.
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In Conclusion
American water heating costs are typically quite high throughout the country. By doing what’s necessary to make the water heater in your home more efficient, such as by following the above recommendations, you can reduce those costs.
For all of your residential plumbing needs, call Skylands Energy. Our team’s licensed plumbers will provide dependable services and practical solutions. Our goal is to provide excellent services at affordable rates. Give Skylands Energy a call to get a free estimate on whatever your plumbing needs may be.
Some of the areas we service include Bridgewater, Martinsville, Raritan, Somerville, and these zip codes: 08807, 08836, 08869, 08876 as well as all surrounding areas in Somerset County, New Jersey.
Contact us now at (908) 707-1776 to find out more!
The post How To Improve Your Water Heater’s Efficiency appeared first on Skylands Energy.
from Skylands Energy https://www.skylandsenergy.com/plumbing/water-heater-maintenance-raritan-nj/
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