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by: AnnTriune
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Modifying the water heater temperature can actually be used in order to save energy. Water heaters are known to be the most energy-consuming appliances in your home, and you can be spending up to $400 in electric fees annually just through the use of water heaters alone!
Nowadays, there are many products available that will help you save up on energy, and as a result, minimize your electricity expenses. You can opt for purchasing a water heater timer or insulating materials. However, if you do not want to shell out some cash as an investment, you can always cut back on energy by applying simple 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 operate the thermostat?
You can refer to the instructions found in your water heater manuals as to how the thermostat is operated. Usually, the thermostat dial for a gas storage water heater is located near the bottom of the tank of the gas valve. For electric water heaters though, thermostats can be found behind screw-on panels or plates. Remember that before opening the panels, make sure to shut off the electricity to the water heater. This is to prevent you from getting electrocuted. An electric water heater may also have two thermostats - one for the upper and lower heating elements.
Once you have located the thermostat and adjusted it to a lower water heater temperature setting, take note of the adjustments you have made and keep it for future reference. Make sure to note the original temperature as well. After you have done so, check the water temperature from the tap farthest from your water heater. Do this to verify if the water temperature has indeed dropped. Most thermostat dials are imprecise, so you have to make several necessary adjustments before finally getting the desired water temperature.
Various Tips on Using Your Water Heater
If you plan to be away from home for a number of days, turn down your water heater temperature to the lowest setting. Or you can just shut off your water heater completely. Switching off the circuit breaker to your water heater can turn it off.
For dishwashers without a booster heater, use water temperature with the range of 130-140 degrees Fahrenheit for maximum cleaning.
As a whole, if you want to cut back on electricity costs, but you're not ready to invest in water heater timers and insulating materials, you can do so by simply lowering down the water heater temperature setting.
Discover the cheapest discounts on water heater timer. Compare water heater prices online.