Sometimes we try to save on daily expenses, we think we consume less and still we keep wondering why we always pay more for energy and hot water. But if your gas or electric water heater is more than 10 years old, the answer may well be there. Buying more efficient equipment is an alternative, along with other ways to save at home.

5 tips to improve energy consumption with your water heater

We love heating when it’s cold, we want to wash dishes or take a relaxing bath. However, the abuse of domestic hot water affects between 20 to 30% in the energy bill. To resolve this situation, we want to suggest the following specific measures:

Be aware of the consumption of hot water

Regardless of whether you have a new boiler or obsolete equipment, the solution to this problem begins with the rational use of water. On average, an open tap consumes about 10 l / min of the vital liquid and this is doubled with the shower or bathtub. We do not see the problem because it seems to us a necessary or insignificant expense.

When we understand that using the water heater and turning on the faucet represents a double expense, the amounts that we do not explain begin to make sense. Energy efficiency and good environmental practices are meant to protect your wallet too. A good option is the installation of dispensers for showers and taps.

Maintenance of the system associated with the water heater

A common recommendation when you have an electric or gas water heater that is more than 7 years old, abused and has lost its efficiency, is to replace it. The alternative to buy is to have the taps ready, avoid leaks, check the correct position of the stopcocks and that the system is clean.

Another good tip for old equipment maintenance involves emptying the tank every 3 months. The idea is to improve efficiency by removing sediment that decreases heat transfer. In addition, you can install heat traps on hot / cold water outlets to control energy loss.

Promote greener habits within the home

In conjunction with the rational use of hot water, we are used to leaving the tap running when brushing, washing dishes or food. These events generate expenses that accumulate. We therefore recommend using the dishwasher more fully, defrosting at room temperature and washing dishes more efficiently.

In this sense, it is important to change the habit of preferring the tub over the shower. Using the bathtub consumes 5 times more liquid and the ideal would be to shower for less than 10 minutes. This is complemented by turning off the faucet when shaving, brushing our teeth or removing makeup.

Insulation and regulation of heating equipment

Another recommendation to improve the efficiency of the water heater is to thermally insulate the tank and connections. If it is a fuel or gas equipment, the thermostat, the top and bottom and the burner space must not be covered. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions or seek professional help.

This measure can be reinforced with the installation of a programmer if the equipment does not include it and you do not pay a fixed rate for day or night hours. In addition, you can set the thermostat to a temperature between 35 and 45 ° C, which avoids having to open the 2 keys to find the most pleasant point.

Change of technology for cheaper hot water

By far, having a new gas water heater is cheaper than buying an electric water heater. In fact, diesel technology is the cheapest on the market, but it has greater environmental consequences.

With a lower cost than seasonal gas, it is worth considering natural gas for hot water in the home. The most attractive thing about this option is that some companies and autonomous communities offer a co-payment for the replacement of a new equipment by an obsolete one. Acquiring the most suitable water heater requires the expert advice of professionals. We can gladly help you answer any questions about the latest innovations in installation and performance. Buy a water heater to save energy in your home.

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