Key Elements of Efficient Water Heating
Did you know that according to the Energy Saving Trust, water heating accounts for around 12 percent of the typical household’s energy bill? By taking steps to improve the efficiency of your water heating system, you can significantly reduce your energy consumption and save money on your bills.
Choosing the Right Water Heater
First things first, you need to select the right type of system for your needs if you’re going to become more energy efficient. The most common water heating systems are:
- Combi Boilers: These compact units provide both hot water and heating and are ideal for smaller homes with limited space. Look for A-rated models with high ErP ratings or modern condensing versions that capture heat from flue gases for maximum efficiency.
- System Boilers: These units are better suited for bigger homes with multiple bathrooms and heat water in a separate cylinder for consistent hot water delivery.
- Regular Boilers: These traditional boilers only heat water for your home and require a hot water storage tank. While they can be efficient, they’re generally less space-saving than combi models.
Insulation and Energy Efficiency
Proper insulation and saving energy go hand in hand. It maintains your water temperature and prevents unnecessary heat loss so make sure your water heater tank is well-insulated with a minimum of 2 inches of thickness.
You can maximise your energy usage by insulating the hot water pipes leading from the tank to your taps. This helps to reduce heat loss during transfers and minimises the energy needed to reheat the water.
Regular Maintenance and Component Checks
Neglecting your water heater can lead to decreased efficiency and potential breakdowns, which can be pricey to fix. Schedule regular professional maintenance checks so technicians can identify and address any potential issues like sediment buildup before they permanently affect the system.
Regularly inspecting your water heater and replacing any worn-out cylinder spares can prevent costly repairs and maintain optimal performance. It’s also worth draining your water heater tank annually.
Using Smart Controls and Thermostats
Modern water heaters often come equipped with programmable thermostats so you can adjust the settings to suit your changing needs. Setting your water heater to the lowest comfortable temperature can significantly reduce energy consumption without compromising on efficiency.
Alternatively, installing smart thermostats will allow you to remotely control your water heater’s temperature and schedule heating cycles to coincide with peak usage times.
