How to Improve Your Water Heater’s Efficiency

Relying on your water heater during these frigid winter months can be a boon, yet did you know optimizing its performance could save money while helping protect the planet? Below, Mr. Rooter Plumbing explores a few simple water heater maintenance tricks and strategies that could make all the difference in water heating units' performance levels.

Preventative Maintenance Is Key

One critical thing you can do for your water heater is to schedule regular maintenance checks and inspections, much like any appliance that needs attention from time to time. By caring for it regularly and adequately checking it, you can help ensure it runs efficiently while saving yourself costly repairs later. Regular checks also allow you to detect minor problems early before they become large-scale ones that require expensive repairs later.

Flush the Tank

Over time, sediment can build up in your water heater's tank, making your device work harder than needed, leading to increased energy costs and shorter appliance lifespan. Flushing out your tank once annually is recommended to remove this buildup and ensure optimal performance from your appliance. Consider hiring an expert plumber or service for this task, as they have all the right tools necessary for safe performance.

Insulating Pipes and Tank

One simple yet effective method of increasing water heater efficiency is to insulate the tank and pipe. Insulation will prevent heat loss through leakage from your heater tank and help ensure hotter water for longer. Similarly, insulating the first few feet of the hot water pipe coming out can also provide excellent results—although if DIY doesn't suit, hiring professional services such as plumbing repair service might be preferable.

Lower Your Thermostat

Most water heaters are pre-set at 140 degrees; however, reducing it to 120 degrees will save money on energy costs while decreasing the risk of scalding. A simple adjustment like this one could drastically impact its efficiency and save energy bills in return.

Check Your Anode Rod

Your anode rod is an integral component of a water heater that acts to prevent corrosion. Over time, however, its anode rod may wear down, exposing your tank to corrosion that could ultimately leak water into the environment. Checking and replacing this component annually could extend its life considerably; for assistance, if necessary, consult a water heater repair expert.

Fix Leaks Promptly

Water heater and plumbing leaks waste energy and water resources, so it's vitally important to repair leaks immediately if they are discovered. Even small leaks could quickly become major issues if addressed; calling an expert plumber quickly could prevent more significant problems while keeping your heater's efficiency intact.

Water Softener

If your home experiences hard water conditions, minerals can build up inside its water heater, decreasing efficiency. Installing a water softener could prevent this buildup and allow your heater to function more smoothly - an investment worth making if hard water remains an ongoing concern for you and if plumbing services can assist with installation services for their water softeners.

Install a Timer

Installing a timer can greatly enhance electric water heater owners' efficiency. A timer allows you to set specific times when the hot water should come on automatically so it only runs during times when needed - perfect if your schedule allows you to plan when hot water needs will arise most frequently! A water heater repair specialist will assist in selecting and installing an appropriate timer suitable to meet these needs.

Upgrade

If your water heater is more than 10 to 15 years old, now may be an opportune time to consider upgrading. Newer models offer greater energy efficiency that could save money over time. Though the upfront cost might be higher, energy bill savings and decreased repair needs might make upgrading a worthwhile investment. Speak with an HVAC service or plumbing repair shop about options before making this important decision for yourself and your home.

Mr. Rooter Plumbing

Improving the efficiency of your water heater can be simple and inexpensive. With simple routine maintenance tasks and thoughtful adjustments from a trustworthy plumbing service provider such as Mr. Rooter Plumbing, your heater can remain at optimal capacity for years! These simple steps—including insulating pipes, flushing out the tank, or checking the anode rod—could save energy costs and extend its lifespan. Take some time now and give yours the care it deserves; your wallet and the planet will thank you!