Consider a Tank-Less Water Heater

1. Keep water heater’s temperature at 140 degrees or lower. Most water heaters can be operated at 120 degrees.

2. If you are expecting to be away from home for an extended time (three days or more), turn the thermostat down or turn the water heater completely off. Switch off the circuit breaker for electric heaters. Before turning off a gas water heater, make sure you can safely relight the pilot light.

3. Install tank-less water heaters. These systems heat the water as needed. As with point-of-use water heaters with tanks, make sure you have the right capacity to fulfill what you need done.

Eliminate Sediment Build Up

4. You can also drain a little water from your water heater periodically. Sediment can build up in the water heater, reducing its efficiency. 

5. Pilot lights, which burn extra energy, can be replaced with an electric ignition.

Insulate Your Water Heater to Save!

6. Use an insulating blanket to wrap your water heater.

7. Use special insulating foam, just for pipes to insulate exposed hot and cold water pipes. Not only will it keep your pipes from freezing in the winter, but will also reduce heat loss.

8. Another option is to insulate the room where the water heater is located.  Keep the garage door closed if your water heater is located in the garage and it is cold outside.

Water Heater Alternatives

9. Install a point-of-use water heater, in this case a small tank close to the sink or bathtub to be used. Make sure you have the correct size to fit your needs. They range in size from 2.5 gallons to 20 gallons.

10. In order to save water, place a bucket, or other container, under your faucet until the hot water arrives. This can be used for house plants and other uses.

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