It is true that your water heater uses a lot of energy to work. When it comes to wattage, it is right behind your central HVAC system and your fridge. However, the monthly bill shouldn’t be so high that it causes you undue pain.

You’ll need to check to see what’s gobbling up energy if there’s a spike in your bill that you didn’t see coming. After you’ve eliminated your HVAC system and your refrigerator as the problem, it’s time to turn to the water heater. Here are some things you may be doing to make the water heater drive up your bills.

Setting the Water Heater Temperature Too High

Most experts recommend that you set your water heater to 120 degrees Fahrenheit, which is hot enough to prevent bacteria from developing in the tank. Setting the temperature too high can put your family at risk of scalding accidents and cause your energy bills to skyrocket. Keeping your water heater at 120 degrees will reduce standby heat loss and help you save up to 20% off your yearly energy bill.

Having Uninsulated Pipes

Insulating the pipe that brings water from your water heater to your faucets keeps heat from escaping. Only the first 3 feet have to be insulated, but the job needs to be done with some care. A professional plumber can insulate your pipes and your water heater tank to prevent heat loss.

Letting Sediment Build Up in Your Hot Water Tank

Although Compton has relatively soft water, which means it’s low in minerals such as calcium and magnesium, sediment can still build up in your water heater tank. To prevent sediment buildup, it’s good practice to drain the tank at least once a year and ideally two times a year. Sediment only makes a water heater work harder, which translates to higher energy bills. It also shortens the heater’s lifespan, which means laying out money to buy and install a new one.

Using Too Much Hot Water

Taking long hot showers may be luxurious, but they are costly, as is washing your laundry in screaming hot water. Try taking shorter showers, and since there are now laundry detergents that work well in cold water, wash your laundry on the cold-water cycle. Also, don’t run your dishwasher if it isn’t full to prevent wasted energy.

Call Us for More Ways to Save Money on Energy Bills

At Frausto Plumbing Services, our licensed and experienced plumbers are second to none, and we are known for our knowledge, skills, courtesy, and punctuality. Though we are experts at water heater service, we also perform drain cleaning, gas line and sewer line service, and repiping. We serve both residential and commercial customers.

Don’t hesitate to contact Frausto Plumbing Services for help with your water heater or other plumbing equipment.