Water Heating
Water heating is a home’s second-highest energy cost, so making sound choices now can lead to big savings later.
Water heating can consume up to 20% of your energy budget, but there are low- and no-cost ways to save before purchasing a new water heater. Install low-flow faucets and shower heads to reduce water usage. Turn down the temperature of your tank. Insulate your heater tank and surrounding pipes. And consider buying an ENERGY STAR® certified dishwasher or clothes washer. Most effective of all, when you do shop for a new water heater, choose the most efficient model within your budget.
Types of Water Heaters
You'll find two basic types of water heaters: storage and tankless. There are a wide variety of storage systems on the market, from heat pump products to solar thermal systems. On-demand (or instantaneous) units generate hot water on an as-needed basis. This is the most efficient tankless option, avoiding heat loss associated with hot water tanks. Geothermal or ground-source heat pumps and solar hot water heaters are the most efficient of all (but quite expensive). Electric heat pump water heaters typically offer the best balance of up-front cost, ease of installation, and savings over time.
- Lower your water heating expenses by up to 50% or more
- Models with a high energy factor save the most over time
- Factor in installation costs when comparing systems