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How To Save on Water Heating, Improve Comfort and Safety

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Do you need instructions on how to change and install a heating element, anode rod, pilot light, or thermostat?

Is your water heater broken, and want to replace it yourself and save?

Do you want to know how to troubleshoot a water heater and repair noise, rotten egg odor, sediment buildup, leaks, or any other hot water problem?

Would you like to know how to clean and maintain your tankless or tank-type water heater and prevent future problems?

Are you asking yourself how to save on water heating and improve comfort, or whether it is better to buy or rent a water heater.

These and many other homeowners' concerns we will explore here in our useful DIY guide.

The guide will help you save on water heating, improve comfort, and protect your home and your family from scalding burns, carbon monoxide poisoning, premature failures, and other accidents.

Note that installing a water heater or any of its elements, including troubleshooting or repairs, is not an average DIY home project. It can be a challenging process, but ultimately, it can save you money. You must have plumbing, gas, and electrical skills, have the right tools, know the local codes, and be willing to spend some time working on it.

And if you are not comfortable working on it, it is best to contact a licensed professional to avoid potential failures and other risks.

Find the latest How To info about water heating and hot water

Other ways to save on water heating

The instructions above mostly consist of DIY projects that can help you save money by working on your water heater instead of hiring expensive plumbers.

Heating a home and water is expensive. Energy used for heating water accounts for almost 20% of the average home's energy usage, making it the second-largest energy expense.

If you're looking to save on water heating, try lowering your energy usage first. Some ways to reduce energy usage are shown below. These are simple things you can do around the house, but they all add up.

Some methods are free, some nearly free, and some with a higher cost:

  • Install a tankless. Switch to an ultra-efficient condensing tankless water heater to heat water on demand when needed and avoid standby heat loss. They come with ultra-high efficiency of over 90% and are Energy Star approved, which often brings rebates and tax credits.
  • Insulate the system. If your old tank-type water heater is or has become low efficient or water pipes are exposed to cold temperatures, consider adding an insulation blanket to the tank and foam sleeves to the pipes.
  • Install a timer. A timer can help you save money by turning the unit on only when you need hot water. Most modern models come with built-in controllers.
  • Reduce the temperature. If you lower your temperature on the thermostat by a few degrees, you will definitely lose comfort but increase savings on energy use.
  • Change your habits. Sometimes small things make the difference. Try taking shorter showers, using cold water to wash hands and produce, running a full dishwasher only, or opting for a cold water option when washing clothes.
  • Fix leaky faucets. Repairing leaky faucets is an essential step to conserve water and save money on your water bill. A leaking faucet can waste a considerable amount of water, and even a small leak can add up to a large amount over time. So, be sure to fix any leaky faucets promptly.
  • Use low-flow showerheads and faucets. These fixtures are designed to reduce the amount of water that flows out while maintaining good water pressure. By using them, you can significantly reduce your water consumption without sacrificing your comfort.