Just like turning off the lights can save money, you can save energy by turning off your water heater at night when it’s not being used. The real question is if the hassle is worth the relatively small amount of money that is saved.
How Much Energy Are We Talking About?
It’s pretty obvious you won’t be using any hot water while you’re sleeping, but during those hours the water heater is using some energy to keep the water hot. Here’s the catch: Modern water heaters are well-insulated meaning there is very little heat loss. Although electrical rates vary, the experts say turning off the water heater at night will likely save about two dollars a month.
Consider Using A Timer
But won’t your morning shower be cold if your water heater is turned off overnight? Cold is likely an exaggeration because the heat loss is minimal, but Masters recommends turning on the water heater a half hour before you need it, giving the unit time to reheat the water to its normal temperature. The easy way to do this is by installing a timer on the electrical circuit. This would also make it easy to shut the water heater off during the day if the house is empty saving you even more money.
Gas Water Heaters Are Different
Generally speaking, a gas water heater should not be turned off unless you are leaving the house for an extended period of time. Even then the better choice for gas water heaters is to just turn the temperature down. In fact, many water heaters have a “vacation” setting on the temperature control.
Consider Other Energy Saving Options
Masters Heating & Cooling will never discourage Fort Wayne, Decatur, Angola, Indianapolis, Greenwood, or Mishawaka, IN homeowners from trying to save energy. But there are likely better ways than the hassle of trying to shut down your water heater for a short period of time. A better way to cut those monthly bills is by investing in a tankless water heater. If you want more energy saving tips, don’t hesitate to call Masters and be sure to like us on Facebook and follow us on Twitter.
