Macon, GA is full of diverse cultures and beautiful architecture. But it can be hard to enjoy these things when your water heater is driving up your energy costs. Here are three water heater mistakes that may be to blame for those astronomical energy bills.
Installing a Water Heater That Is Too Small
A water heater that is too small will have a hard time keeping up with the demand of your household. Since it does not produce enough hot water, it will run constantly. This constant running uses a huge amount of energy which will significantly increase your energy bills. When installing a new water heater, it is important to involve a professional that can determine the size you need for your household. This will result in consistent hot water and an efficient system that uses the least energy possible.
Setting the Temperature too High
Nearly all water heaters allow you to set your desired hot water temperature. If your water heater is set to high, it will use a lot of energy heating the water. If you have a tank water heater, it will use even more power trying to keep the water at your set temperature. The default setting on a water heater is 140 degrees Fahrenheit. The most efficient temperature is 120 degrees Fahrenheit. At this temperature, you get plenty of hot water for household use. It is not recommended to set your water heater below 120 degrees due to the risk of bacteria growth in your water heater and hot water pipes.
Keeping an Old Water Heater Around
After about 10 or 15 years, the efficiency of your water heater will start to decline significantly. An inefficient water heater has to work harder to do its job. This results in increased energy usage and out-of-pocket costs. While your old water heater might still be providing your home with hot water, it is likely costing you a lot more than it should. New water heaters have higher energy efficiency ratings than they did a decade ago, which can help reduce your monthly energy costs. Signs that you need a new water heater include a lack of hot water, leaks, cracks in the tank, and signs of rust on the tank or in the water.
If your water heater seems to be struggling to keep up with demand or it’s time for a new one, contact A1 Plumbing. In addition to water heaters, we also offer general plumbing services, drain cleaning, re-piping, and more.