How to Make your Old Water Heater more Energy-Efficient

Sure, we’d all like to install an amazing, energy-efficient water heating system in our homes, but that isn’t always doable. Constraints on time, space and money can inhibit your efforts in this regard, but thankfully there are some things you can do to improve the efficiency of your existing water heater. Here are some ways to make your old water heater more efficient.

1. Insulate Your Pipes
The pipes right above your water heater are the ones where the most energy is lost. This is because hot water automatically moves upward, like hot air. Tube-shaped pipe insulation is not expensive. You can also install heat trap fittings on your old water heater.

2. Wrap Your Heater
If the top or sides of your water heater feel very warm to the touch, then your water heater is losing heat. Wrap it in bubble wrap, household insulation, or a thick blanket, securing it with duct tape. You can also go to your local home improvement store and get wrapping that is made for water heaters. Some experts do not recommend wrapping gas-powered water heaters.

3. Turn It Down
One hundred and twenty-five degrees is the maximum temperature at which your water heater should be set. It’s even better if you can get away with 120 degrees. Cut off the electrical power to your water heater before making any adjustments to the thermostat.

4. Clean the Sediment
Sediment collects in the bottom of water heaters, especially in areas where the water is hard. This sediment makes the water heater less efficient – the heat has to penetrate the sediment before it gets to the water itself. To clean your water heater, simply open the little faucet at the base of the tank and drain out about a gallon of hot water. So this about twice a year.

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