As you look for ways to button down your house and save more energy this winter, don’t overlook your water heater. The U.S. Department of Energy reports that insulating the tank can reduce heat loss from this appliance by 25-45 percent, resulting in a savings of 4-9 percent on your water-heating expenses.
Energy loss at the water heater results from “standby” heat loss from heating the water stored in the unit. After the water is heated to temperature settings at the thermostat, it is stored in a holding tank until it used for cooking, cleaning, bathing or other household tasks. As it sits in the tank, the water cools, losing more and more of its heat energy. This standby energy loss means you have paid to heat water that wasn’t used for household needs.
Water heater tank insulation can cut down on these energy losses and keep your supply of hot water at a higher temperature for longer periods.
Contact your local HVAC supplier or hardware store. They should have pre-made insulating jackets that can be installed around your water heater. Use insulation with an R-value of R-8 or above.
In most cases, you should be able to install this jacket yourself. Be sure to leave the thermostat access panel uncovered. Once the insulating jacket is in place, do not set the water heater’s thermostat above 130 degrees; the excess heat could damage the unit’s wiring.
Gas and oil water heaters should be insulated by an HVAC professional.
Don’t forget to put a piece of rigid insulation under the tank. This keeps heat from being lost into the floor and should save another 4-9 percent on energy use.
Around the Clock Heating and Air Conditioning, Inc. has been a trusted source of residential and commercial heating and air conditioning service since 1967. We serve customers in Los Angeles and surrounding areas, including Pasadena, Glendale and Santa Monica. Contact us todayfor information on water heater tank insulation and for the right material to do the job.
Our goal is to help educate our customers about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems). For more information about insulating your water tank and other HVAC topics, download our free Home Comfort Resource guide.
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