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Q. How important is it to insulate my electric water heater?
A. It depends mainly on the location and age of the water heater. If the
water heater is in a cooler area, more heat will be lost from the tank, making
additional insulation more important. Newer water heaters have more built-in
insulation than older ones, so you will save less by adding additional
insulation. In most cases, you can easily save enough to offset the cost of the
insulation, so unless your water heater has a label or sticker telling you not
to add insulation, it is usually a good idea. Don't forget to insulate any
exposed hot water pipes as well.
Q. What is the best temperature setting for my water heater?
A. For an electric water heater, set the thermostat to 55°C (130°F). This is
the recommended temperature for health and safety. Bacteria can grow at lower
temperatures, and above this, you run a high risk of scalding as well as wasting
energy. Check the temperature at the faucet.
Q. How do I change the temperature setting on my water heater?
A. With an electric water heater, the thermostat controls are behind the
access panels on the side of the water heater (there are usually two - one for
each heating element). Be sure to turn off the power to the water heater before
removing the access panels.
Q. What size water heater should I have?
A. It depends on family size and lifestyle, but for the average family of
four, a 150 litre (40 US gallon, or 33 Imperial gallon) tank should be
sufficient.
Q. Aside from adjusting the temperature, are there other easy ways I can
save on water heating?
A. The simplest way to save is to use less hot water. Use low-flow
showerheads, wash clothes in cold or warm water instead of hot, and only run
full loads in your clothes washer and dishwasher.
Q. What is an "instantaneous" or "on demand" water heater?
A. An instantaneous or on-demand water heater is a small heating unit
located close to the point of use, which heats the water just before it is used.
These units have no storage capability, and are usually not well suited for
"whole house" use, as multiple units are typically needed.
Q. What is the purpose of the pressure relief valve on a water heater?
A. The pressure relief valve is an important safety feature. It prevents a
potentially dangerous pressure build-up in the water heater in the event that
the thermostat malfunctions and fails to turn off the elements or burners. These
valves should never be wired shut or otherwise tampered with.
Q. Should I drain my water heater, and if so, how often?
A. It is a good idea to drain water heaters once a year. Be sure to shut off
the power and the incoming water to the tank. Let the water cool down before
draining it. Always attach a hose and run it outside - do not attempt to drain
the tank a small amount at a time, as sediment at the bottom of the tank may
clog the drain valve, making it impossible to close until the tank has been
fully drained and flushed. Once the tank is empty, turn the water supply back on
and flush the tank until the water runs clear. Then refill the tank completely
before turning the power back on.
Q. Should I shut off my water heater if I plan to be away from home?
A. If you go away for more than a week, it is a good idea to turn off the
water heater. If the water heater is electric, you can shut off the circuit
breaker.
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