Home Energy Conservation Comes
From Hot Water And Cool Air

Conventional Water Heater

When you think of home energy conservation, you think; where can I experience the biggest savings? Approximately 25% of all household energy usage goes towards heating water. Newer water heater designs have increased insulation and other home energy conservation features as part of their design.

If you have an older water heater or discover that your existing water heater has minimal insulation then you should consider purchasing a water heater blanket.

It's a good idea to verify that the use of a water heater blanket is a viable option for your water heater. The cost of a blanket is relatively low and can be purchased at most area hardware stores or even online.

The blanket will help contain the heat on the stored hot water and you will have achieved home energy savings, cutting your water heating cost by as much as 10%.

Also, turn the setting on the heater down to 120 degrees Fahrenheit. If degree settings are not available, you can check the temperature by holding a cooking thermometer under the hot water coming from a faucet.

One caution: If your dishwasher does not have a pre-heater you will need to go to 140 degrees in order to clean your dishes according to sanitary standards.

Tankless Water Heater

If you are going to replace your water heater consider the new tankless water heater type. These are extremely efficient and will provide added home energy conservation. They turn on when there is a demand for hot water and produce it immediately through a heat exchange system. Once the hot water is turned off the unit turns off.

They are expensive compared to a conventional water heater but are 30% to 50% more efficient then the tank type and will obviously save you money over the long run. There are different types and price ranges so be sure to verify exactly what you want.

One of the nice things about the tankless water heater is that it’s only about the size of a small cabinet and can be hung on the wall. Make sure to get the unit sized properly for your use. Among other things, verify the adequacy of the flue that is required and necessary power supply.

Central Air Conditioning

If your air conditioning system is more than 15 years old, you should consider replacing it with a more efficient system especially if your system is in poor condition. Air conditioners are rated by SEER, (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Rating).

The minimum SEER today is 13 as mandated by the government. Asyou increase the SEER level, the more energy efficient your unit becomes. New units of today are a lot more efficient and you would be saving electricity if you replace your current unit(s).

It would be wise for you to seek the advice of a qualified contractor to choose the correct size and efficiency rating for your home.

Modern AC units are fairly expensive and will require an extended payback period but is a move in the right direction toward home energy conservation. The payoff in increased home energy savings may be well worth it.

These energy conservation products are certainly worth looking into if you want to help save the environment and experience home energy savings.

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