Are you looking for ways to reduce your energy consumption and save money? If so, you should consider making your gas heater plumbing system more energy efficient. Lowering the hot water tank temperature to 120 degrees can help you save 3-5% on your water heating costs. Additionally, insulating the hot water pipes and installing an insulating blanket for the water heater in the tank can help reduce natural gas consumption. Keeping your plumbing system in good condition is one of the best ways to ensure that it is energy efficient.
To determine the efficiency of your heating system, you can measure its annual fuel usage efficiency (AFUE). Understanding AFUE can be helpful whether you're looking for a new heating system or just want to learn more about the one you're already using. You can also improve the efficiency of your gas water heater by changing it to a new unit. The new models have many energy-saving features, such as flashing pilot lights instead of stationary pilot lights, which allow you to consume less gas. They can also have more precise gas control valves for more precise control of the pilot flame. The following 4 simple tips will help you get the best possible performance and energy efficiency from your gas water heater:
- Lower the hot water tank temperature - For every 10 degrees of temperature reduction, you can save 3% to 5% on your water heating costs.
- Insulate hot water pipes - Installing an insulating blanket for the water heater in the tank will help reduce natural gas consumption.
- Change to a new unit - New models have many energy-saving features, such as flashing pilot lights instead of stationary pilot lights, which allow you to consume less gas.
- Measure AFUE - Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency (AFUE) measures the thermal efficiency of heaters and other combustion equipment, such as water heaters and boilers.
Using a tankless water heater also uses less natural gas than a water heater tank and you'll avoid heating the entire tank instead of just the amount of water you need. By following these simple tips, you can make sure that your gas heater plumbing system is running efficiently and saving you money in the long run. With a little bit of effort and knowledge, you can make sure that your home is as energy efficient as possible.