Water heaters are the second-biggest consumer of electricity in the home, accounting for 18 percent of electricity costs, according to the Department of Energy. So what’s one of the best ways to reduce your water heater’s electricity consumption? By avoiding certain costly habits.
The air conditioning repair contractors at Bill Reynolds Heating & Air Conditioning share some energy-saving tips in this guide.
Setting the Water Temperature Too High
If you have a new water heater installed, you might want to change its temperature settings. Some water heaters’ settings are preset to 140° F. According to the Department of Energy, temperatures above 120° F are too high for most households. Keeping water temperatures below 120° F not only reduces your water heater’s electricity consumption, it also reduces the risk of leaks. Remember: If the water temperature is too high, the pressure inside the tank will increase, which might eventually cause leaks.
Ignoring Popping Sounds
Popping sounds coming from your water tank are a cause for concern because they’re a sign that too much sediment has accumulated at the bottom of your water heater. These popping sounds come from pockets of water trapped between sediment and the burner. When the pockets of water are heated, steam violently rises out of the sediment layer, creating a popping sound. Since the sediment layer also creates a barrier between the water and the burner, your water heater is forced to consume more electricity. If you hear any popping sounds, contact your trusted local HVAC contractor as soon as possible.
Neglecting to Maintain Your Water Heater
Sediment layers are formed from mineral traces in hard water that settle at the bottom of the tank over time. Fortunately, sediment layers and excessive electricity consumption can be avoided by having a professional heating service contractor inspect your water heater at least once a year.
Are you looking for experienced contractors in your area?
Bill Reynolds Heating & Air Conditioning, a family-owned and -operated business with over six decades of experience, offers a wide range of professional heating and cooling services, including furnace installation. To request a quote, call us at (440) 946-7863 or fill out this form.
