When auditing your home’s energy use, you will notice a very noticeable stat. If you’re still using a traditional water heater, it will account for a sizeable portion of your household’s energy consumption.
These water tanks can account for 18% of your home’s energy use or more; in watts, this may translate between 1,000 to 5,000 watts.
Most importantly, does a more energy-efficient water heater exist?
The answer is “yes!”
There are four primary types of alternatives:
- Hybrid water heaters (with heat pumps)
- Electric tankless alternatives
- Solar-powered water heaters
- Condensing water heater models
When households practice better water heater conservation, they can save even more money and resources with efficient water heater models.
Here are a few ways to incorporate more efficient home water heating solutions.
Consider a Hybrid Model
One of the most energy-saving water heaters is the hybrid model.
Unlike traditional water heaters, hybrid alternatives don’t generate heat directly. Instead, these models draw heat into the tank. Hybrid models may generate heat from the air and ground heat sources.
Hybrid water heaters are more energy efficient because they use an electric pump to transfer water from the tank. The water pump is positioned vertically on top of the tank; thus, you’ll need enough room to properly install the tank on your property.
These alternatives also offer plenty of storage tank space for an efficient hot water supply.
Go Tankless
The next energy-efficient water heater is a tankless version. You guessed right; these models don’t have a tank. These appliances heat water on demand; thus, you’ll also find these models marketed as “on-demand” water heaters.
Tankless water heaters contain coils that heat water as quickly as possible for on-demand use. This process is also called superheating. Water is retrieved and heated directly from the water line; additional water storage isn’t necessary.
Consumers like tankless water heaters because:
- They can enjoy hot water in a matter of seconds
- On-demand devices only heat water when you need it
- They don’t waste energy maintaining and storing hot water
While tankless water heaters are energy-efficient and don’t have the same limitations as conventional models, it’s still important to practice water conservation alongside; this will save you more money, conserve water, and ensure the lifespan of your tankless water heater.
While tankless heaters save more space, don’t install them yourself. The professionals at Home Team Plumbing understand how to properly place and wire a tankless water heater in your home.
Solar-Powered Water Heaters
Renewable energy sources like solar power are saving homeowners thousands of dollars through innovations like solar panels. Now, you can enjoy energy-efficient water heating through solar power, as well.
A solar water heater has a closed-loop mechanism that transfers solar energy directly from the sun to a material that absorbs the heat; this process is called heat conduction. Once heated, this material heats the tank’s water supply.
Solar water heaters are an excellent complement to any solar-powered home. It even works on cloudy days with a backup energy source.
Condensing Water Heaters
Are you already using natural gas to power your home?
You can still optimize your energy use for maximum energy efficiency. In this case, consider installing a condensing water heater. These water heaters use the unused fumes from natural gas to heat water in the storage tank.
A condensing water tank has a funnel system that transfers natural gas fumes through a heating coil that sits on the bottom of the tank. The tank’s funnel system is connected to the home’s energy system.
You’ll often find these types of water heaters in larger sizes, making them ideal for large (or growing) families with higher-volume water needs.
A condensing alternative is only recommended for households that already depend on natural gas energy since it uses leftover fumes. It would not be a good option if your house runs on electric or solar energy.
Is There a Gas-Powered Energy-Efficient Water Heater?
Gas-powered tanks are still available. However, if you want to save more money on your next energy bill, you’ll need to eliminate wasteful practices.
Energy-saving tips include:
- Lowering your water heater’s thermostat
- Installing a size-appropriate water heater
- Draining your tank’s sediment build-up
- Proper tank and pipe insulation
Being mindful of how much hot water you (and your family) use will naturally lower your bill.
- Try taking shorter showers with lukewarm water
- Start doing your laundry with cold water
- Switch to an energy-efficient dishwasher (or handwash)
Your current water heater may need a replacement. Older models can waste energy by overworking themselves to heat water. With proper maintenance, some water heaters can last 20 years; however, it’s a good rule of thumb to consider a replacement every 10 years.
Consider replacing your traditional water heater with a tankless alternative to see the difference in energy use.
How to Measure Water Heater Efficiency
If you want a more accurate picture of your water heater’s energy efficiency, start by understanding its EF rating; “EF” stands for energy factor. The EF value measures the amount of hot water that’s used in one day; the value is represented in fuel units. It reveals how much hot water your heater can generate with the fuel source provided.
A water heater’s EF also considers the following factors in its calculations:
- Cycling heat loss rate (the amount of heat lost during circulation)
- Standby losses (the amount of heat lost in storage)
- Recovery efficiency rate (the efficiency of the heat transfer process)
You can also mitigate efficiency concerns through proper installation. Never install a water heater yourself, regardless of the model. Always call a professional who can identify the right place, tank capacity, and model for your home.
Enjoy Hot Water Without the Waste
It’s always good practice to routinely assess your water heater’s efficiency. Consider switching to a more energy-efficient water heater if you’re noticing sharp increases in your energy bills. Water conservation can help instill even more energy-efficient practices at home.
At Home Team Plumbing, we can answer all of your questions about efficient water heating. Check out our water heater services to learn more about the models we offer.
We’re a team of certified plumbers with over 10 years of experience, including 24-hour emergency services.
Contact us today to book a service call.
