DIY Energy Saving Projects; Lower Water Heater Temperature
If you are reading The Wire’s Summer Energy Saving Tips you know that a great way to save on energy usage is turning the water heater temperature down to 120°F. The Wire,thanks to Energy.gov, is providing you with step by step instructions on how to safely lower the setting.
According to Energy.gov, savings resulting from turning down your water heater temperature are based on two components: reduced standby losses (heat lost from water heater into surrounding basement area); and consumption (from water demand or use in your home). Set too high, or at 140ºF, your water heater can waste anywhere from $36 to $61 annually in standby heat losses and more than $400 in demand losses.
Step by Step instructions on Energy.gov
BEFORE YOU GO
Consult your water heater owner's manual for instructions on howto operate the thermostat.
You can find a thermostat dial for a gas storage water heater near the bottom of the tank on the gas valve. Electric water heaters, on the other hand, may have thermostats positioned behind screw-on plates or panels.
As a safety precaution, shut off the electricity to the water heater before removing/opening the panels.
Keep in mind that an electric water heater may have two thermostats—one each for the upper and lower heating elements.
SHOPPING LIST
Thermometer for testing the water temperature.
Marker to mark the setting on your thermostat
STEP-BY-STEP INSTRUCTIONS
1) Find the current temperature.
Measure the beginning temperature of your hot water using a thermometer at the tap farthest from the water heater. Thermostat dials are often inaccurate.
2) Mark the setting, then turn down the thermostat.
Mark the beginning temperature on your water heater thermostat with a marker, and then turn the thermostat down.
3) Measure and adjust.
Wait a couple of hours, and then measure the water temperature again at the farthest tap from the water heater. Several adjustments may be necessary before you get the temperature you desire.
4) Mark the new temperature.
If you are satisfied with the temperature, mark the new temperature on the water heater thermostat with a marker, so that you can make adjustments in the future if necessary.
5) Turn down or off when away.
If you plan to be away from home for at least 3 days, turn the thermostat down to the lowest setting or completely turn off the water heater.To turn off an electric water heater, switch off the circuit breaker to it. Fora gas water heater, make sure you know how to safely relight the pilot lightbefore turning it off.
