Save Big Bucks through Changing Water Heater Temperature!
Ann Triune
Changing your water heater temperature settings could be the answer to your growing electric bills. In fact, it can be used to save energy. Water heaters consume the most energy at home compared to other appliances. You could be spending up to $400 a year in utility charges just on your water heater alone.
There are several ways for you to save up on energy, and consequently lessen the amount on your utility bills. Among these is purchasing a water heater timer or insulating materials. If you are not ready to dip into your pockets, there is also an easy way to minimize your water heater energy consumption. Just change the water heater temperature.
How does this work?
If you set your water heater thermostat at a low setting, you can actually be saving significant amounts of energy. As a matter of fact, you could be saving up to 5% of energy just by reducing 10 degrees Fahrenheit from your current water heater temperature.
Did you know?
Some manufacturers calibrate water heater thermostats at 140 degrees Fahrenheit even when the average household only requires a water heater temperature setting of 120 degrees Fahrenheit. If you lower your temperature setting by 20 degrees Fahrenheit, you can be saving up to 10% of energy. Using 140 degrees Fahrenheit as your temperature setting can also pose some serious risks and hazards, such as scalding.
Moreover, by lowering your water temperature to 120 degrees Fahrenheit, you can prevent mineral build up and corrosion in your water heater and pipes. In effect, your water heater can last longer and function with maximum efficiency.
How do I maneuver 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.
After you have pinpointed the location of your thermostat, you can adjust it to a lower setting. Make sure to note down the beginning and adjusted temperature for future reference. You can then proceed to verifying if the temperature has indeed dropped by checking the temperature of the water from the tap farthest from your water heater. You may have to perform a number of adjustments to get the exact temperature you want since most thermostat dials are inexact.
Miscellaneous Tips on Using your Water Heater
Before setting off for a vacation, make sure to set the thermostat to the lowest temperature or completely shut off your water heater. You can do this by switching off the circuit breaker to it.
For dishwashers without a booster heater, use water temperature with the range of 130-140 degrees Fahrenheit for maximum cleaning.
Overall, if you are concerned with the growing numbers on your utility bills but you're not ready to spend for water heater timers and insulating materials, lowering down the water heater temperature setting is the choice for you.
See the best offers on
http://allheaterguide.com/) water heater timer. Compare
http://allheaterguide.com/space-heater) water heater prices online.
Categories 
