Electric Water Heater Efficiency: How to Maximise Energy Efficiency

February 14, 2018

Most homeowners never think about electric water heater efficiency. They turn on the tap, enjoy the feel of the hot water, and they open the flow wide. Little do they realize, the system is leaking energy. Thought to be a home’s second hungriest energy monster, can we really afford to stay ignorant? Take action, maximize energy efficiency, and start making big savings now. Eliminate that water heater’s energy-guzzling habits.

Reduce Scalding Risks 

What’s the point of turning the water thermostat up until the tap discharges scalding hot water? The heat will burn and sting, a youngster’s delicate skin will turn lobster red, and cries of pain will ring through the room. Turn the tank thermostat down to a safe level. Remember, a temperature adjustment carried out back at the tanks is bound to bring about a significant energy drop, one that translates to real energy savings. Everyone wins, including your skin and the utility bill.

Insulate Those Exposed Pipes 

According to the laws of thermodynamics, heat likes to wander. It radiates through space, convects in the air, and it conducts through materials. That last principle is the one that really challenges us the most. Heat escapes metal pipes and plastic hoses. It propagates through glass windows, wood and most other materials. Insulate the exposed pipes with polyethylene or neoprene foam. Older structures still pack heating pipes in fibreglass wool, but this substance is no match for modern foam, plus the tiny glass particles can pose a health risk.

Consider a Sediment Flush 

Tiny waterborne particles find their way into the electric water heater. They coat the interior, reduce tank efficiency, and a resulting decrease in energy efficiency occurs. The electric water heater, the water storage unit, requires a flushing operation. Carried out by an expert technician, this procedure is typically conducted once a year. Imagine the efficiency of the heat exchanger rising as the interfering coating is washed out of the system.

Turn down the tank thermostat to reduce scald risks. If the heater is located in a garage or some other exposed location, it needs an insulating jacket. Furthermore, the water transporting pipes also need a heat-conserving layer of foam insulation. Is the system aging? Maybe the electric element is on its way out, so call in your local tech for a replacement element. Finally, DON’T attempt these repairs or checks, not when there’s electricity flowing in the wires and elements. Call in one of our heating engineers to safely take care of all energy efficiency issues.

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