Your hot water heater accounts for about 20% of all the energy used in your home. There are a few simple things you can do to save energy and save money.
First, turn your water heater down to 130 degrees F, which is hot enough to kill deadly bacteria, and still save energy. Also, insulate your heater with a pre-fab 'blanket,' but be careful not to block off air vents on gas heaters. This can save you 7-8% of your energy usage.
Another idea is to wash hand in cold water. Letting the tap run till it gets hot wastes water and energy. Unless you've been handling meats you will probably get your hands just as clean with soap and cold water anyhow. And it's surprising how much water is wasted as we let the tap run while brushing our teeth.
But if you're in the market for a new water heater consider a tankless heater from Rheem. In most cases this will save considerable energy, plus you'll save space too. The water is heated instantly as you require it rather than keeping a tank hot all day and night. Contact me for more information.
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