Is Your Water Heater Your Friend?

One of the big energy wasters in the home is the water heater.  If it were possible to use only cold water, greenhouse gases could be reduced significantly, but few people want to take cold showers.

 

Conserving hot water is an important part of any plan to reduce energy consumption.  Here are some ideas that can make a significant difference in how much you spend on hot water usage.

 

1. The water heater should be placed in close proximity to where hot water will be needed most often.  Many gallons of water are wasted running down the drain while waiting for the hot water to reach the faucet from the water heater.

 

2. When it is not possible to locate the water heater close to each fixture, consider one of the following fixes:

 

a. Locate your water heater in the basement.  Because of the natural ability of heat to rise, there is a continuing circulation of hot water, making it readily available at the fixtures at the highest elevations.

 

This is accomplished by making a loop in the hot water line that attaches to the drain at the bottom on the water heater.  As water cools off, it falls and enters the lower part of the tank and the hotter water rises to take its place.

 

b. A pump to re-circulate the water is another way to keep heated water in the pipes.  Pumps use energy, but they can be placed on timers so they are not pumping when no one is in need of heated water.

 

When you are attempting to save both energy and water, it is important to insulate very well.  If your water heater is not in a conditioned space, it is imperative that the tank be sealed to allow the least amount of heat loss.

 

Even if the heater is located in a conditioned space, a water heater jacket can save energy.  All hot water lines located in the walls, the attic, or under the floor need to be wrapped with pipe insulation, too.