A water heater is one of the most energy-hungry appliances in your Graham home. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, water heating can account for 14% to 18% of your utility bill, making it the second-largest energy expense in the average household. Fortunately, there are effective ways to improve the energy efficiency of your water heater—without sacrificing comfort.
In this guide, our plumbing professionals at Einstein Pros Graham walk you through practical tips and upgrades that can lower your energy usage, extend your water heater’s lifespan, and reduce your utility bills.
🛠️ 1. Lower the Thermostat Temperature
Most water heaters are set at 140°F by default, but you can safely lower the temperature to 120°F without sacrificing comfort.
- According to Energy Star, every 10°F reduction can save 3–5% in energy costs.
- Reducing the temperature also helps prevent mineral buildup and scalding—a smart move for households with children or seniors.
Einstein Tip: After adjusting your water heater temperature, check your faucets to ensure the hot water is still comfortable for bathing and dishwashing.
🧵 2. Insulate Your Water Heater and Pipes
Older tank-style water heaters in Graham homes can benefit significantly from insulation jackets or blankets, especially in unheated spaces like basements or garages.
- Pipe insulation helps reduce standby heat loss, which is when water in the tank loses heat while waiting to be used.
- According to the U.S. Department of Energy, insulating your pipes can raise water temperature 2°F to 4°F hotter than uninsulated pipes.
Important: Don’t cover the thermostat or burner compartment when installing insulation. If unsure, schedule a service with our licensed plumbers in Graham to handle it safely.
🚿 3. Install Low-Flow Fixtures
Installing low-flow showerheads and faucets can reduce the demand on your water heater without affecting water pressure.
- These fixtures use up to 50% less hot water, making them an eco-friendly upgrade.
- Look for the WaterSense label, which guarantees both efficiency and performance.
- Find products here: EPA WaterSense Products
Pairing low-flow fixtures with a more efficient water heater creates compounded savings over time.
🔁 4. Flush Your Tank Regularly
Sediment buildup from minerals in the water is a common issue in Pierce County, and Graham is no exception. These sediments settle at the bottom of your water heater, making it work harder to heat water.
- Flushing your tank once a year removes sediment and keeps your system efficient.
- This also extends the lifespan of your heater by preventing overheating and corrosion.
Need help? Our Einstein Pros Graham plumbing team offers affordable water heater flushing and maintenance services.
⚙️ 5. Consider a Water Heater Upgrade
If your water heater is over 10 years old, it might be time to consider an energy-efficient upgrade.
Best Options for Energy Savings:
- Tankless Water Heaters: Heat water on demand, saving 24%–34% more energy for homes using less than 41 gallons daily.
- Heat Pump Water Heaters: According to Energy Star, these use 70% less energy than traditional models.
Einstein Pros in Graham can help you choose and install the best unit for your household’s water usage and energy-saving goals.
📆 6. Schedule Routine Maintenance
Just like your HVAC system, water heaters perform best with regular tune-ups. Annual inspections from your local Einstein Pros plumber in Graham can:
- Catch early signs of wear and tear
- Check for leaks, corrosion, or anode rod failure
- Ensure thermostats and valves are operating properly
Regular service not only ensures energy efficiency but helps avoid emergency plumbing repairs down the line.
⚡ 7. Use a Timer for Your Electric Water Heater
Electric water heaters can benefit from a timer, especially in households with consistent hot water needs.
- Set the timer to turn off during non-peak hours, such as overnight or when you’re at work.
- This can cut standby losses, especially if your heater is in an uninsulated area.
🌍 Save Energy, Save Money, Save Water
Improving the efficiency of your water heater doesn’t require a massive investment. With some smart upgrades and consistent maintenance, Graham homeowners can enjoy lower energy bills and more reliable hot water year-round.
At Einstein Pros Graham, we provide expert water heater services—from maintenance and flushing to high-efficiency upgrades.
✅ Schedule Your Energy-Efficient Water Heater Tune-Up Today!
Whether you want to flush your tank, insulate your heater, or install a tankless system, our licensed Graham plumbing professionals are here to help. Contact Einstein Pros Graham to schedule your inspection or energy consultation today.
🔧 Trusted. Licensed. Local. That’s the Einstein Pros difference.