What Hot Water Heater is Best for You?

Every drop counts

Before choosing a new $500 high- efficiency tank-type water heater or a $3,500 solar system, there are several ways to reduce the amount of hot water you’re using and make your existing heater work more efficiently. Learning to use less hot water will also reduce the necessary size (and cost) of your future system.

Go low flow. A family of four, each taking a daily five-minute shower, can use as much as 700 gallons of water each week (about a three-year supply of drinking water for one person). A low-flow showerhead reduces water usage from 3.5 to 6 gpm down to 1.0 to 2.5 gpm. High-end low-flow showerheads will pay for themselves within a year.

Turn down the dial. Most water heaters are preset at 140 degrees Fahrenheit, even though 115 to 120 degrees is adequate for most households. Every ten-degree reduction lowers energy usage by 13 percent, and you’ll reduce the risk of scalding and increase the life of your water heater.

Turn off the heat. Turn electric water heaters off at night, and you will reduce energy usage by 5 to 12 percent. Some utility companies offer lower rates if you install radio-controlled switches that shut heaters off during periods of high demand.

Wrap it up. If your water tank feels warm to the touch, it needs more insulation. Tank jackets (about $20) can cut standby heat loss 25 to 45 percent. (Note: When wrapping gas heaters, keep the jacket away from the flue on top and be careful not to block airflow to the burner.)

Flush the tank. Sediment that collects in the bottom of the storage tank will eventually reduce the heater’s ability to transfer heat. To prevent this buildup, drain a quart of water from the tank every three months.

Buy energy efficient appliances. Next to the shower, the dishwasher and the washing machine use the most hot water. Wash clothes in cold or warm settings, and consider buying a horizontal axis machine that uses 60 percent less energy. Dishwashers with booster heaters can raise incoming water to a sanitizing 140 degrees Fahrenheit.