Having access to hot water during the winter is important for maintaining hygiene and safety. As the temperatures outside get colder, your water heater will need to work harder to keep up. Without proper maintenance, it can lose efficiency, leading to higher energy bills and the potential need for water heater replacement Santa Rosa. To ensure your water heater performs at its best, especially during the colder months, it’s important to take a few key steps to improve efficiency and reliability.
Schedule Regular Maintenance
Keeping your water heater efficient throughout the year is part of the importance of regular water heater maintenance, but it’s especially critical before winter sets in. Hiring a professional plumber to perform a routine inspection can catch potential issues before they escalate.
Lower the Temperature Setting
Many water heaters are preset to a high temperature, often around 140°F. However, lowering this setting to 120°F can significantly reduce energy consumption without compromising on comfort. For every 10°F reduction, you can save up to 5% on your energy bill. This simple adjustment also helps prevent scalding, making your home safer.
Fix Leaky Faucets
Leaky faucets, especially those connected to hot water, can drain both water and energy. Even a small drip can waste gallons of hot water over time, making your water heater work harder than necessary. Make it a habit to inspect faucets regularly and call a plumber for leak repair.
Install a Timer for Your Water Heater
If you have a traditional storage-tank water heater, it can be more energy-efficient to install a timer. This device allows you to schedule the heater to turn off during periods of low usage, like late at night or while you’re away at work. By reducing the amount of time your heater is constantly running, you can save on energy costs and reduce wear and tear on your unit without sacrificing hot water availability when you need it.
Upgrade to a More Efficient Model
If your water heater is more than 10-15 years old, it might be time to consider choosing a new water heater. Newer, more energy-efficient models are designed to minimize heat loss and maximize performance, even in colder weather. Energy Star-rated water heaters, for instance, use up to 50% less energy than older models.
Tankless Water Heaters
Additionally, switching to a tankless water heater can provide even greater savings. Tankless systems heat water on demand, meaning they don’t waste energy keeping a large tank of water warm all day. This can be a great investment, especially in areas with harsh winters.
Keep Your Water Heater Working – Yorkshire Plumbing
Are you ready to get your water heater prepared for winter? At Yorkshire Plumbing, we specialize in water heater maintenance, repairs, and water heater replacement in Santa Rosa and the surrounding area.
Whether you need an inspection or a new, more energy-efficient model, we’re here to help! Contact Yorkshire Plumbing today or give us a call at (707) 492-9656 to schedule an appointment and ensure your home stays warm and comfortable all winter long!
