5 Energy Saving Tips for a New Hot Water System Installation

A new hot water system provides you with an opportunity to lower your energy use. This is a good thing both financially and for the environment.

1. Opt for Electronic Ignition

Instant hot water heater systems feature one of two ignition systems. The traditional method was the pilot light system, which meant that a small amount of gas flow was maintained and burned off by the system between uses. Modern systems use an electronic ignition, which means there is no need for constant gas flow or a pilot light. This minimises the amount of gas used by the heater, leading to energy savings.

2. Shorten Supply Lines

Some heat is lost through the pipes as it makes the way to your sink or bath taps. To minimise this, install a new system near the point of use. Shorter pipes mean less heat loss, thus you can avoid higher energy expenses to heat the water to a higher temperature. An extra benefit is that shorter pipe lengths can also decrease the cost of the initial plumbing installation.

3. Insulate at Installation

Although short pipes can help minimise heat loss, it's important to take additional steps to further reduce energy loss. Insulating the hot water supply lines at the time of installation is key to preventing almost all heat loss. There is an added energy savings benefit when it comes to insulated pipes, as well. Since heat won't escape into your home's walls, it will also reduce the energy use necessary to cool your home.

4. Size Correctly

For the lowest energy usage, choose a unit that is sized to meet your needs. For larger homes or those with multiple floors, it's often better to install two or more smaller volume units than to install one large unit, for example. You also don't want an oversized unit for a small family, since it will use much more energy than is necessary to meet your hot water needs.

5. Adjust the Thermostat

Make sure your installer adjusts the thermostat to a lower temperature when they are putting in your new hot water system. Many new systems are set at a default temperature of 60 degrees Celsius, which is much higher than necessary. A better option is to adjust the system to 50 degrees. This is hot enough for comfort and to destroy any harmful bacteria, but it doesn't require nearly as much energy as maintaining a higher temp.

Contact a hot water system installation service for more energy savings advice for a new water heater. 

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