Kotz Heating, Cooling & Plumbing knows saving money is important to nearly every Waterford, MI homeowner. One question we often hear is, “Should I turn off my electric water heater when I don’t need it, like when I’m at work during the day?” Our general recommendation is no unless you’re going to be away from the house for a month or longer.
What is That Based On?
Common sense tells you the water heater doesn’t use electricity when it’s shut off so clearly you can save money. The energy experts say it’s about $1.36 a day. The question you have to answer is whether it’s worth it because there are some inherent problems with turning a water heater on and off.
- No hot water when you return. Lukewarm water doesn’t really do anyone any good. Depending on how long the water heater is turned off, it can take more than an hour before you have hot water available.
- There can be problems getting the unit to turn back on. This is a common complaint from homeowners, especially if the water heater is turned off for several days. The risk goes up if your heater is an older unit.
There Are Other Options
Kotz wants to be clear, hot water is usually the 2nd largest energy user in the home behind heating and cooling so you should look for every way to save money. Many newer water heaters have a vacation setting on the thermostat which greatly reduces the temperature but doesn’t entirely shut it off. During normal operation, make sure your water heater is set at the correct temperature. The Department of Energy recommends 120℉.
Maintenance is Vital
The hard water prevalent in Waterford, MI is extremely damaging to water heaters. The minerals settle in the tank and form sediment. Flushing the tank annually gets rid of the sediment and increases energy efficiency.
Your Anode Rod
Maintenance also includes replacing your anode rod. Without getting into the science, it protects your hot water heater against corrosion. Kotz prides itself on only using anode rods made from a zinc alloy that are a step above what many contractors install.
Make your appointment Now
If you want to shut off your water heater, we can’t stop you, but Kotz believes there are much better ways to save money on your hot water bill. Call now to make your appointment. Be sure to like and follow us on Facebook and Twitter for more great information like this.
