Talk to our team about your home’s water heater needs.
How much of your home’s monthly energy usage do you think is attributable to heating water? According to the U.S. Department of Energy, the average household spends almost one-fifth of its energy bill on hot water.
At Leahy’s Fuels, we install and service some of the most efficient and high-performance water heaters in Ridgefield and throughout our entire service region, which includes Western Connecticut and parts of New York. Our team is always available to help you reduce your water heater-related costs while maintaining steamy showers and ensuring a constant supply of hot water to your taps, washing machines, dishwashers and other appliances. That said, there are a few simple ways to monitor and reduce your household’s water use, which can help lower your heating costs.
Simple Tips to Lower Hot Water Usage
The Department of Energy offers the following water conservation tips that can slash your water heating costs:
- Install low-flow showerheads. If your showerheads were installed before 1992, they may be increasing your water flow considerably. Choose aerating (misty spray) or laminar-flow (individual streams) to reduce water use.
- Fix leaking fixtures and plumbing. Repair dripping faucets, showerheads and pipes to save water and money. A single drip per second can waste 1,661 gallons annually.
- Use faucet aerators. Replace aerators with models that have flow rates of 1.0 gallons per minute or less for efficient water use.
- Upgrade to energy-efficient dishwashers and clothes washers. ENERGY STAR appliances use less hot water and energy.
- Operate dishwashers efficiently. Only run full loads and use shorter wash cycles to save water and energy.
- Consider dishwashers with built-in booster heaters. These increase water temperature for cleaning without requiring higher water heater settings.
Other Ways to Lower Your Water Heater Usage
In addition to lowering water usage around your home, here are some easy ways to help your water heater run more efficiently:
- Lower the temperature to 120°F. Changing the setting from the higher temperature that most manufacturers use can reduce your energy costs and minimize the risk of burns while still killing bacteria.
- Use vacation mode. Switch to vacation or pilot mode when away to conserve energy.
- Perform regular maintenance. Flush the water tank annually to remove sediment and bleed radiators for even heat distribution.
Let Leahy’s Help with Your Water Heater Upgrades and Upkeep
If your water heater is 10 years old, it’s likely nearing the end of its lifespan. Watch for signs of wear, such as rising energy use and increased utility bills. If you’ve noticed this, now’s the time to plan for a replacement. Acting early can help you avoid unexpected breakdowns and ensure a smooth switch to a more efficient system. Leahy’s Fuels sells and installs high-efficiency products, including tankless water heaters.
Our skilled technicians also handle water heater maintenance and repairs. We offer affordable service plans that include annual tune-ups and discounted rates on parts and repairs, helping you avoid costly bills!
Looking to get more dependable hot water while lowering your energy usage for years to come? Talk to our team about a FREE estimate on a new water heater.