Search using 
Waterheatertimer on Twitter
knowledge, behavior, products ... no magic bullet, no single answer for saving energy
Savings estimates show 'approximate/ savings/ depending on usage and other factors
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Search using
Waterheatertimer on Twitter |
Ways to save
with water heater knowledge, behavior, products ... no magic bullet, no single answer for saving energy Savings estimates show 'approximate/ savings/ depending on usage and other factors |
  Cold water enters bottom of water heater each time hot is turned ON |
✔ 1.
Behavior
that will save money: Do
not turn on hot water when using cold Save $2 per month. When hot is turned on, even a moment, cold water immediately enters water heater. Water heater runs more. Single handled faucet lifted in center will draw hot water from tank. Repairs: A faucet drip will run Hot out of tank. Or if single handled faucet has crossover, then hot water can draw from tank and flow through defective faucet cartridge when other faucets turn on. Buy: Moen double handled faucets at Amazon Resources: Crossover/ that causes hot to run when cold is on Ways to increase amount of hot water Cold water dip tube How electric water heater works How gas water heater works Washing hands in hot water not necessary/ pdf |
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2. Product
choice: Install
Dual-handle faucets when replacing faucets Save $2 per month Product will save money if people do not turn on Hot when using only cold water. Prevent unintentional hot water consumption. It is easy to know when Hot water is drawn from tank. Solves potential plumbing problems such as crossover Buy: Dual handle faucets at Amazon Moen faucets at Amazon Resource Crossover means bad single-handle faucet cartridge draws hot from tank |
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3. Behavior
that will save
money: Take showers/ not baths/
save 10 gallon hot each time/ Save $4-10 per month / + save water Take showers/ not baths. Bath consumes 12-17 gallon hot, shower 4-7 gallon hot. Depending on usage. Save 10 gallons hot each time. Use shower shut off to save water between lather and rinse, or to reduce flow. Buy: Shower shut off at Amazon Resource How much hot water does bath of shower use Photoshop how-to |
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3a. Product
that can save
money: Low flow shower head Save $1 per month + save water Conventional showerheads flow at 5 gallons per minute or more, whereas low-flow showerheads typically flow at 2.5 gallons per minute or less. You get wet ... even if a bit less water is coming out of shower head .... and it means less hot water is drawn from water heater ... ... which means water heater runs less ... but it also means that a water well, or city pumping plant, the sewer systems ... every machine and process that is needed to provide you a shower saves energy when you conserve Buy: Low flow Shower head |
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 Shower shut off |
✔ 3b. Product
that can save
money: use shower shut off Save 20¢ per month + save water Stop drips. If shower drips when valve is off, and valve is off in center position, or if double handle faucet leaks on hot side, then hot water is leaving tank and new cold water is entering tank. Reduce flow. Reduce consumption. If shower head is turned off between lather and rinse, this action will save water and save hot water Remove shower head. Apply teflon tape to threads. Install shut off. Apply teflon tape to shut off threads. Re-install shower head. Buy: Shower shut off at Amazon Resources: Water-loss-with-one-drip/ pdf |
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 Take showers instead of bath.  Use safety grab bar on bathtub Buy: Safety grab bar at Amazon Bolt on safety grab bar Bathtub safety grab bars |
✔ 4. Behavior
that will save money: reduce
consumption Save $10 per month You can save Conserve energy by using less hot water. Wash hands in cold water saves more than a gallon of hot each time depending on distance between heater and faucet. If the objective of hand washing is to kill bacteria then 140° water temperature would be needed, but the skin would burn critically within seconds. In normal household situations, without health-compromised folks, it is ok to wash thoroughly with cold water and soap. Other strategies include: Install small point of use heater at hand washing sink. Wash clothes in cold water. Install smaller main water heater if consumption is reduced. Smaller water heaters have slightly higher efficiency. However, water
heater that is too small for demand will overwork heater, increase
maintenance, and shortened lifespan, increasing overall cost.
ResourcesRead: how much hot water for bath/ shower Read: how much does it cost to run water heater |
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 Large bathtubs... Require bigger water heater  Remember the water cools off as tub fills Air bubbles cool the water |
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5. Behavior
+ product choice: Large
bathtubs consume large amounts of hot water. Save $10-40 per month Each gallon taken from water heater is replaced by another gallon of cold water that must be heated to temperature set point. Home with garden-sized or over-sized tub often require 80 gallon first-hour delivery. Check spec sheet for bathtub before buying. Typical 50 gallon gas water heater can usually match the 80 gallon demand for the tub, but not guaranteed, nor meet other hot water uses until tank completely reheats hour and half later, indicating need for a condensing heater. Typical 50 gallon electric heater cannot meet the 80 gallon demand, and a large heat pump would be required. However, the 80 gallon heat pump would barely meet the 80 gallon deman, and not other uses until tank reheats 4 hours later (or longer if heater is set to most efficient mode). Heat pump electric and condensing type gas heaters run with higher efficiencies, but the saving is offset by increased cost to buy, maintain and repair. The option of buying two 40 or 50 gallon gas or electric heaters still costs more than a single heater, but the second heater could be turned on except when large tub is used. The problem with 2 gas heaters is the need for two vent pipes. The problem can be resolved using 1 gas and 1 electric etc. Resources Two water heaters Amount of hot water used for bath or shower Cost to run water heater Ways to increase amount of hot water Is water heater supplying right amount of hot water .pdf Review solar water heater |
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5a. Gas/ More hot water needed:
Condensing water heaters/ Information If home has 5-7 people, and more hot water is needed, or home needs tank that is larger than 50-55 gallon gas water heater that delivers 80 gallon, then a condensing heater is mandated by the April 2015 DOE energy standard. Condensing heaters are expensive to buy, maintain and repair, but have 80-82% overall efficiency vs 62-63% efficiency of typical tank type gas water heater. The high-tech condensing heater with electronic controls make the unit susceptible to surge and other failures typically found with electronic appliances, such as overpriced parts. It is probably still cheaper overall to buy and operate 2 ordinary gas water heaters, despite the lower efficiency. Resources: Review Polaris condensing heater Vertex condensing heater Two water heaters |
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5a. Electric/ More hot water needed:
Heat pump water heaters/ Information If home has 5-7 people, and more hot water is needed, or home needs tank that is larger than 55 gallon electric water heater, then a heat pump (hybrid) heater is mandated by the April 2015 DOE energy standard. Heat pumps are expensive to buy and require regular maintenance, but have higher efficiency than typical tank type electric water heater. Heat pumps are large, heavy and generally not DIY repair. The 80 gallon heat pump can deliver just 80 gallon of hot water and less in cold winter months. 80 gallon heat pump takes 4-6 hours or longer to reheat full tank. While government and manufacturer resources show amazing savings from a heat pump vs ordinary electric heater, real-world numbers are not available to prove the 'savings' vs cost of purchase, installation, maintenance, repair, limited lifespan, aggravation and replacement cost. It is probably the case that Heat pumps can save money in some installations. Because heat pumps draw heat for the water from the furnace, while cooling the room, they are best suited to warm climates ... in colder regions it might be cheaper overall to buy and operate 2 ordinary electric water heaters instead of using furnace to heat water. Resources: Which is best heat pump hybrid Review GE heat pump |
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✔ 6. Product
choice: Install
smaller water heater/ reduce consumption Save $4 per month Resources Choose right size ... don't oversize. What size heater is needed -Smaller water
heaters have slightly higher efficiency than larger heater, and smaller
heater costs
less to operate.
-Water heater that is too small for demand will overwork heater, increase maintenance, and shortened lifespan, increasing overall cost. -All costs are energy, so total cost over life of appliance is important. Home might require at least 40 gallon for resale value. Home with garden-sized or over-sized tub require minimum 80 gallon first-hour delivery. Anticipate that water heater lasts 6-12 years. Maintaining water heater can increase lifespan of heater Resources Sizing a water heater Which is best gas water heater Which is best electric water heater Which is best heat pump water heater Additional read |
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✔ 7. Behavior
that will save money: Turn
off
2nd water heater Save $40 a month right now Read about 2 water heaters Homes often have 2nd water heater for convenience. The 2nd heater may not be necessary. If 2nd water heater is needed, put in a smaller tank, or install under-counter water heater at faucet. Resources: How to install under-counter water heater How much does it cost to run water heater? Read A home with larger consumption can install 2 heaters for double amount of hot water ... if large usage is periodic, 1 heater can be turned off. Resources: How to install under-counter water heater How much does it cost to run water heater? Read Control two water heaters Electric water heater timers Gas water heater timers |
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✔ 8. Behavior
that will save money: Fix
drips and leaks Save $1+ per month Save 1/2-2 gallon per day: When hot side faucet drips, then cold water is entering tank at same rate water is dripping out of faucet. Turn off all taps... put ear against pipe... listen for leak... look at water meter and see if meter advances. Buy: Water detectors at Amazon Automatic water heater leak shut off at Amazon Resources: Water-loss-with-one-drip/ pdf Automatic water heater leak shut off installation Leaking water heater/ steps |
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 Automatic shut off valve |
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9. Product
that can save money: Prevent
flood damage/ automatic shut off valve Savings undetermined/ save massive damage to home Shut off water automatically when leak is detected Valve attaches to water line... detector sits on floor... electric power does not rely on batteries Buy: Water detectors at Amazon Automatic water heater leak shut off at Amazon 24 volt motorized ball valve Resources: Leaking water heater/ steps |
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✔ 10. Product that can save
money: Use mixing valve Save 15-40¢ per month/ vrs cost of product and install Save $5-20 per month if used for off-peak strategy or when used with solar water heater How does this save hot water? Each household tap is a mixing valve... where you manually adjust water temperature by adding cold. A mixing valve or tempering valve located at water heater does same thing, but automatically adds cold water to hot to change water temperature based on adjustable temperature knob. Mixing valve at water heater can control the amount of hot water that travels down the pipe going to tap. Also gives option to supply very hot water to some areas of home, while ensuring safe temperatures for reset of house. Typical water heater thermostat is 120°, typical bath-shower 108°. A mixing valve keeps more cold water out of tank, and water heater stays hotter longer. Good off-peak
strategy for electric heaters ... you heat water during off peak ...
then have hot water during peak times when heater is turned off.
Good solar strategy.... heat water during peak sunshine... then sip hot water throughout night or over several days. Good strategy for increasing amount of hot water without buying larger heater. Good safety strategy for preventing burns from very hot water. Buy from my affiliate links: Mixing valve kit at Amazon Water heater mixing valves at Amazon Resources: Advantages-disadvantages of mixing valve Review solar water heater Off peak ideas for electric heater Ways to increase amount of hot water |
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 Larger image Heat traps save small amount each month Tempering tank/ preheat incoming cold water Insulate pipes Insulate water heaters Locate usage near water heater Total $3-5 per month savings |
✔ 11. Home
design will save money: Locate
water heater near bath and kitchen Save $4 per month/ save water The closer water heater is to faucet, the larger the savings since less cold water enters tank as hot is drawn from tap. Draw hot from 15 feet away, then 1/2" pipe x 15' of cold waters enters tank just to get hot to faucet. The new cold water entering tank must be heated to thermostat set point again. .229 square inches per 1/2" pipe. Ten feet 1/2" pipe = 120 inches x .229 square inches = 27.48 27.48 cubic inches ÷ 231 cu in per gallon = .12 gal for each 10 feet of distance. If bathroom is 20 feet away. 3 showers per day .72 gallons per day x 365 days = 262 gallons of cold water that does not enter tank. That means 262 gallons of cold water is not heated from 60° to 120° thermostat set point.  Buy: Home design books Resources: Tempering tank Heat traps Distance water travels in pipe How much hot water is used for bath and shower |
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✔11a. Home design that saves
money: Heat pump water heater uses heat coming from refrigerator to heat water Modest home has 88 cent energy bill Real science at work that you can apply. Seems like you could build miniature heat pump water heaters for the kitchen that would be able to sync up thermally with the fridge and synergize. The waste product from one is the feedstock for the other. Maybe install water heater above the refrigerator. There is waste heat happening off of fridges, freezers, generators and of course the biggest one .... Air Conditioners. Resources Water heater uses refrigerator heat Low-energy home uses heat pump integrated with heat from kitchen refrigerator pg9 $100,000 small house design that uses .88 cents per day energy Must read Gary Klein research pdf Must read How to make passive solar water heater |
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| Footnote |
Each
Home is energy battery Winter sun benefits overnight warmth of home Summer night benefit coolness of home in day More insulation benefits year-round |
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| Footnote |
Water
heater tank is energy battery Heat tank during off-peak hours Insulate tank to hold heat inside tank Place tank in naturally warm location Water heater tank exposed to sun will hold more heat |
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12.
Product,
behavior, science that can save money: Earthquake-proof
water heater Save property damage and possible fire  ResourcesRead pdf See illustration See seismic map Earthquake straps help prevent gas leak, fire in event of earthquake. Prevents damage to property, protect tank and avoid injury from falling tank. Dropped water heater, or water heater fell over Buy: Earthquake straps at Amazon Geological maps |
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✔ 14. Behavior
that will save money: Set
water heater higher: avoid
rising water.
Save cost of water heater replacement Flooded heaters require replacement and void product warranty. Do not touch ELECTRIC water heater, or power vented, flue damper type heaters that have been flooded ... avoid risk of electric shock. Make sure breakers are turned off before servicing. Flooded GAS water heater can be risk of explosion and fire if put back into service. Malfunctioning gas control valve and gas that is not completely burned cause risk. heater must be replaced or entire burner and gas valve replaced, the combustion chamber cleaned out etc. Resource Read flooded water heater |
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 How to maintain water heater |
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15. Behavior
that will save money: Maintain
water heater to last twice as long Save $8-10 per month replacement cost If water heater lasts 10 years, and cost $600 to buy and install today, but $1200 to buy and install 10 years from now, then the depreciation cost is $8-10 per month. All costs are energy. Add depreciation cost to monthly energy bill to accurately estimate cost for operating water heater. It makes sense to maintain water heater. Fix it yourself, and save money. Read product manual before you buy. Keep it simple. High tech heaters like condensing gas and hybrid electric claim higher efficiency, but cost much more, require more resources to build and deliver, cost more to replace, don't have longer warranties, replacement parts are expensive, and might not be DIY repair. Post your question on a pro water heater forum 1 2 3 4 5 6 Resources: |
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 Buy: Anode rods at Amazon |
✔ 15a. Maintain. Inspect anode rod: prevent rusted tank Save $4 per month Resources How to Inspect Anode rod Anode prevents tank from rusting. Inspect every 1-3 years to prevent rusted tank, and increase life of water heater Prevent leaks, tank failures, potential water damage, and early demise of heater Install 2 anode rods, and tank lasts longer. Two anodes can convert 6-year tank into 12 year tank. Tanks needing frequent anode replacement might benefit from powered anode rod. Buy: Anode rods at Amazon Resources: Check and replace anode rod each 1-3 years |
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 Efficiency
of
electric water heater can be fully restored
Efficiency of gas water heater cannot be restored |
✔ 15b. maintain. Science: Efficiency, Hard-water, and Water-softener. Resources Water softeners accelerate anode consumption because they eliminate the formation of scale in the water heater tank Light scale formation in a water heater is desirable since it forms a barrier film on the exposed steel surfaces in the tank such as pipe connections and weld areas. Read AO Smith pdf Storage-type Electric water heaters operate at 94-95% efficiency with or without water-softener, until sediment reaches bottom element. Full efficiency can be restored to Electric storage heater by cleaning sediment out of tank. See how to clean electric Storage-type gas water heater operates at 69% efficiency. Tankless gas 79%. High-efficiency storage-type gas has 96% efficiency. All gas water heaters lose efficiency when hard water is not softened. Efficiency of gas water heaters cannot be fully restored by cleaning or de-liming. See how to clean gas Anode options Read softener research pdf Hard water must be softened for gas water heater efficiency. However, soft-water is corrosive to anode rod. When water-softener is used, anode rod needs inspection every 2 years. |
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✔ 15b. Maintain. Inspect tank each 6 months for water leak Save cost of water damage/ mold Prevent leaks/ resources: Read: Leaking water heater Read about anode rods Avoid major damage to home caused by tank rupture and leaking.. Inspect water heater each 6 months. Inspect and replace anode rod every 2 years. Use reinforced flexible connections. Keep water pressure below 80 psi, or install expansion tank Read more |
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 See drip pan installation Buy: Water heater drip pans at Amazon Buy: Water detectors at Amazon Auto-shut-off valve at Amazon |
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✔ 15d. maintain: Gas water heaters
Inspect yearly .... prevent risk ... ensure best efficiency Check viewport. Flame should be crisp clear blue with flicks of red-yellow. Lazy yellow flame or flame lifting high off burner or overly noisy indicate need for service. Inspect top of heater for soot. Use nose to detect unburned fuel smell. Observe vent for signs of condensate, moisture and rust on vent. Make sure vent and pipes are secure. Keep dust and chemicals and flammables out of same room. Resource: Troubleshoot gas water heater How to clean water heater burner |
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 Clean out tank |
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15e. Maintain Flush tank each six-months Save $1 per month/ extend life of heater and keep efficiency high Flushing each 6 months helps prevent efficiency loss. Heating water distills chemicals out of water with some water conditions more problematic. Even water that is softened can cause distillates. Higher thermostat temperatures cause more distillates. Sediments often cannot be fully removed from bottom of gas or electric heaters. Electric heater can be vacuumed and full efficiency restored, but gas heaters suffer efficiency loss when bottom of heater and thermostat probe get coated with minerals. Resources: How to replace element and clean sediment out of tank See steps to flush tank See steps to clean tank Read softener research pdf How to flush tankless How to clean tank and pipes with clorox Hot water heater odor/ how to replace anode rod |
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15f. Maintain tanks with odor Deodorize and clean tank with Hydrogen peroxide/ bleach Best choice is hydrogen peroxide for simple monthly flush if needed. Use bleach if problem is severe. Resources: See steps to clean tank How to clean tank and pipes with bleach Zinc-Aluminum anode rod helps prevent odor How to replace anode rod |
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  How to adjust thermostat down to 120° |
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16. Behavior
that will save money: Turn
down thermostat Save $2-4 per month standby cost "Maximize efficiency by setting to minimum temperature that supplies acceptable hot water supply." For each 10 degree reduction, save 3-5% operating cost. 120°F or lower is considered optimal. Typical shower bath 104°F. 140° degrees . Temperatures at or above 140° kills most bacteria but poses risk of scalding, can cause minerals to distill out of water, cause pressure problems on plumbing and damage pipes. Pressure should not exceed 80psi. Lower thermostat temperature reduces 'first hour delivery' or reduces the amount of hot water that is available from tank. Resources: See how to adjust temperature on (gas and electric) water heaters How to increase amount of hot water Resources for troubleshoot: Troubleshoot gas water heater Troubleshoot electric water heater How to replace thermostat on electric heater How to replace thermostat on gas water heater Calculate first hour delivery Calculate recovery |
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17. Science:
Slow
heating uses less energy Save $4-20 per month Water heaters with high recovery rates and high first-hour delivery generally use more BTUs per gallon of hot water. See typical gas and electric water heater recovery chart Heat pump water heaters, when operated without back-up elements, can save energy, but technology is suited to warm climate. All costs are energy: small, inexpensive, well-insulated water heater might be better choice than heat pump. Do-it-yourselfers can change electric water heater into off-peak water heater, where lower element is turned off to save energy Read. Water heater timers can be wired so they turn off lower element. Water heater timers can be set so just enough hot water is available when needed Resources Two water heaters Off-peak water heater ideas Off peak water heater wiring Image of timer controlling off peak thermostat Compare water heater timers Review GE hybrid water heater/ heat pumps can be expensive and inconvenient GE energy smart water heater has temperature adjustments on front of water heater |
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 See illustration  Do not obstruct or cap off TP  Leave access to tank drain |
✔ 18. Product that will save money: Wrap water heater with insulation Save $1-2 per month Save 4-9% operating cost. Home centers sell ready-to-use blanket for $25. US Dept of Energy suggests R-8 which equals 2-1/2" fiberglass insulation. Water heater manufactured after April 2015 have more insulation and tanks are larger. Buy from my affiliate links: Water heater insulation blankets at Amazon ✔ Does water heater need insulation? Use thermal heat sensor to measure heat loss -or- Tape thermometer to water heater, cover thermometer with fiberglass insulation, after 20 minutes, remove insulation & compare before and after thermometer reading. Buy: Thermal heat sensor High temperature mercury thermometer Gas water heater are wrapped differently Electric water heater: OK to insulate entire tank, except TP valve. Gas water heaters: NO insulation on top of tank -or- over draft air inlet -or- air intake opening -or- around gas control valve Resources See illustration Dept of energy resource See illustration of gas water heater blanket |
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19. Product
that will save money: Infrared temperature gun Saving undetermined Insulate water heater tank Check attic insulation Check windows and doors Check insulation on pipes Buy from my affiliate links: Water heater insulation blankets at Amazon Thermal heat guns High temperature mercury thermometer Pocket thermometer |
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✔ 20. Insulate
TP valve Small savings each month Add insulation to TP valve to prevent heat loss. Do not cover lever with insulation. Do not cap off TP valve or cap off discharge tube. Resources Read about TP valve code Water heater safety precautions How to replace TP valve Troubleshoot leaking water heater |
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 Insulate pipes Which materials have most insulation value? Touch or grasp material with hand. Materials that feel warm are best insulators. |
✔ 21.
Product that will save money: Insulate
pipes Save 25 cents - $1 per month x 30 years = $90-180 For example, 100 ft of 1-1/2 in bare copper tubing results in a heat loss of 5300 Btu/h. Pex tubing cab have less heat loss. Insulate pipes at water heater and rest of house Water pipes lose heat. When colder water enters tank, it must be heated more. Pipes on top of tank draw heat out of water heater. Tank runs more. Gas water heater: Insulation must stay away from top of heater and vent pipe. Electric water heater: Insulation can cover all pipes and top of water heater Buy: Pipe insulation at Amazon Thermal heat sensor/ Infrared heat gun |
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 Electric water heater only Experiment. In winter, sit on a cold outdoor bench and it feels cold. Next, place piece of styrafoam on bench and sit again, and it feels warm. Practical application: sit on piece of styrafoam at football game |
✔ 22. Personal
behavior: Set
ELECTRIC
water heater on
insulated surface Small savings each month Prevent heat loss through bottom of tank. Electric water heater only: Internal steel tank has no insulation on bottom. Water in bottom of tank is hot. Proof: open drain valve at tank bottom releases hot water. Heat loss can be slowed with insulation. You are warmer sitting on insulation, so is water heater. If there was no vertical transference between hot and cold, then you could sit on block of ice and never feel cold and pants would never get wet from the melting ice. For example, use Dow blue styrafoam Or build 2x4 frame filled with insulation and covered with 3/4" plywood. Plywood is good insulator. Metal and aluminum are very poor insulators and will cause heat loss. To test insulation value of material, put hand on material and see if it warms quickly under hand Note: water weighs 8.34 pounds per gallon 40 gallon steel water heater filled with water weighs approx 450lbs. 80 gallon water heater with water 870lbs. Make sure floor structure can support weight of 2-4 large men. |
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✔ Resources
for electric water heater:
Water
heater causing high electric bill Resource: Water-heater-causing-high-electric-bill Water heater is tripping breaker Troubleshoot electric water heater How to install meter on electric water heater |
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23. Solar Product that might save money: Commercial solar recirculation system Save $0-20-40 per month vs cost of product and maintenance Recirculate solar-heated water into storage tank Absolutely: research full cost of system vrs payback Areas like Hawaii, where energy costs are very high, will benefit These systems last about 12-14 years/ some claim they last longer. Generally solar water heating is not mobile, check area for re-sale value Resources: Review: should you buy factory-made solar water heater |
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23a. Solar DIY solar project can save money: Photovoltaic DC water heater/ Save $0-40 per month vrs cost of materials and install and maintenance Heat water using sun Solar assistance or full solar... the less hot water is heated using electricity or gas, the larger the savings Resources: Low voltage PV photovoltaic heater High voltage PV photovoltaic heater Review Techluck |
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23b. Solar Passive solar water heater collector Save money each month vrs cost of materials Save $40 per month Tomorrow's homes will have solar water heaters. Use old water heater tank. Start today. Set 2 gallons water in sun to wash dinner dishes. Hawaii requires all new homes to have solar water heaters. Congressional bill aims for 200,000 rooftop solar water heaters Cheapest way to go is DIY passive heat collector Heat water using sun ... go off grid and save full cost of water heater Set old water heater in the sun Put two gallons water in the afternoon sun... it all counts. Resources: Passive DIY solar heater using old water heater or solar collector Long list of DIY solar water heat ideas. |
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 Tempering tank Larger image |
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24. Personal
behavior,
science, recycling: Install
tempering tank/ Pre-heat incoming cold water Save $2-8 per month Tempering tank located in naturally warm location can passively preheat water before it flows into cold water side of water heater. Re-purpose old water heater as tempering tank, don't throw it away. Tempering tank can be old water heater, or coil of copper tubing, or any 20-80 gallon water tank not connected to fuel source. Also use old water heater for passive solar water heater Buy: 20 gallon water heaters at Amazon Compare small tanks Resources: How to Install tempering tank Convert water heater to DC photovoltaic Passive solar water heater Compare 20 gallon water heaters + installation Two water heaters Read about electric water heater thermostats Add another thermostat to gas or electric water heater |
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25. Options
and products that might save money: Control
2 water heaters Save $2-5 a month Many homes have 2nd water heater for convenience, or when guests arrive. Run 1 water heater full time/// run other heater part time as needed. If 2nd water heater is needed, put in smaller tank, or install under-counter water heater at faucet. Resources: Control two water heaters How to install under-counter water heater How much does it cost to run water heater |
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26. Product
that might save money: Recirculation
system provides hot water for frequent hand washing Save $10 per year? Recirculation system motor costs money to operate, and water heater runs more hours. If you have recirculation system, use timer instead of thermostat to control circulation. Typical Grundfos UP15 pump uses 29 watts and costs modest $25 per year when run 2 hours per day, but water heater runs more and costs additional $20-35 per year. Resources Recirculation system operation, manuals, diagrams |
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26a. If you need immediate hot water .... Or to replace bigger tank with very small heater ... then small heater at sink can save money: Small heater at sink Save $2-8 per month/ under-counter heater/ Weigh cost of products against hot water savings Pot heater can save instead of using hot water from main heater (requires frequent cleaning with white vinegar) -or- Connect small under counter heater... connect to cold water line Avoid tankless: it costs more to heat water rapidly with tankless Buy: Thermo hot pot at Amazon Point of use water heaters at Amazon Resources Compare under-counter water heaters, manuals, and installation How to increase amount of hot water |
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26b. If you need immediate hot water
.... Small
tankless
heater at sink Save $2-8 per month/ under-counter heater/ requires 10 gauge wire and 30 amp breaker Weigh cost of product and installation against hot water savings Connect to cold water... never draws hot water from main tank Instant hot water at sink Buy: Tankless point of use at Amazon Point of use water heaters at Amazon Resources Compare under-counter water heaters, manuals, and installation How to increase amount of hot water |
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27. Behavior
that will save money: Use cold water for Washing
machine/ dishwasher Use cold water instead of hot Turn off hot to washing machine Connect dishwasher to cold water line. Avoid expensive products: When starting machine, add 1 cup white vinegar to remove spots and stains from dishes and machine. Connect under-counter water heater to cold water line instead of hot If very hot 135 degree water temperature is needed for wash day: Raise water heater temperature for that day or hour, and then reduce temperature to 120 degrees later. Buy: Washing machine amazon Resources How to adjust temperature Use timer to temporarily raise water heater temperature (alters water heater wiring/ voids product warranty) 140 degree temperature needed to kill bacteria |
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Product promotion that has
nothing to do with water heater  Buy; Grabber at Amazon Clothes dryer Product that will help you: remove clothes from dryer; get objects down from top shelf; pick up a dime off the floor; squeeze the cat Photo shows my wife removing socks from dryer. This product is shown here because I use it. The grabber makes our lives easier Use for 36" size is best.
50" size is too heavy for us older folks |
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28. Product
that can save money: Install
water
heater
timer Save $10+ per month by reducing consumption & using timer Resources Good for homes with few people and homes with peak electric pricing Not good for homes with several people and large consumption habits. Timers can save money when people also reduce consumption and schedule hot water read1 read2. See water heater timers Read3 Does a timer save money: yes especially in stated with tiered pricing/ and small amount in states without tiered pricing. If you have old heater, start fresh: clean out tank, replace anode rod, lower thermostats, wrap heater with insulation, and install a timer. Go next door and install timer for neighbor. How much money does a timer save
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✔ 29. Behavior
that will save money: Off-peak
water heater options Save by avoiding peak electric pricing Applies to electric water heaters Avoid peak electric prices. Save money. Wire timer to operate electric water heater during off-peak times. Water heater is always ON like usual, but less hot water is available during peak-price hours Resource How to wire off-peak water heater Changing water heater to 120Volts will save money during peak hours. If people also lower consumption. Resources How to convert water heater to 120Volt. How to install electric meter on water heater. |
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30a. Product
that will save money: Use
brass pipe, elbow and nipple when connecting copper
to
galvanized,
or water heater to galvanized pipe Save cost of plumbing repairs Prevent electrolytic corrosion/ deterioration of galvanized pipes and clogs Use 6 wraps teflon tape on threads 30b. Stainless Steel is reactive with softened water Avoid stainless if home has water softener .... reactive water caused by softening will deteriorate stainless 30c. Galvanized pipe Galvanized pipe will work but not best choice for saving money. Hard to connect, reactive steel might clog heat traps, harder to make repairs if heater must be moved. 30d. Black pipe Black pipe is NOT code approved or clean enough for potable (drinkable) water. Black pipe is code for gas line only Buy: Brass nipples at Amazon Brass elbows at Amazon Buy if water is not softened: Stainless nipples at Amazon Stainless elbows at Amazon |
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  Buy: Flexible Water Heater Connector at Amazon Flexible stainless 24" connectors> |
✔
30e. Product
that can save money: Use
Flexible copper -or- PEX Stainless Steel lines are reactive with softened water Save some installation costs Resources I personally use copper flex lines and they are thicker and more stout than flexible stainless. Avoid stainless if home has softened water: reactive water caused by softening will deteriorate stainless Flexible connections make water heater installation and repairs easier Broken and leaking pipes cause repair costs. Braided hoses can leak, and interior rubber coating can come apart and get into pipes. This applies to both water heater and washing machine and water softener. Ruptured washing machine hose and water heater supply lines cause flooded homes. Use di-electric nipples between flex connections and water heater. See insurance loss chart, water heater failure data High water pressure above 80psi can cause water heater damage, plumbing damage and rupture. Install pressure-reducing valve and set pressure for 40 psi. Read about low hot water pressure and clogged pipes Buy from my affiliate links Copper water heater connector Stainless steel flexible connection at Amazon Sharkbite water heater connection Water heater installation kit |
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 Minimum 6"  See larger image of installation |
✔ 31. Behavior that will save money: Add heat traps Electric: Save $9.20 per year 2012 prices Gas: Save $4.00 per year 2012 prices .... to slow natural convection of heat upwards Prevent loss of heat leaving top of water heater. Insulate pipes. Some new water heaters have built-in heat-trap nipples and washers. Factory-installed heat-trap nipples and washers can clog Resources Read heat trap bulletin/ pdf Heat trap research/ pdf Making heat traps /at forum Low hot water pressure/ causing pressure problems. New water heater making noise Replace factory heat traps with di-electric nipples, and then add heat trap pipes |
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| Code
requires all household grounds be connected together... including
satellite, phone, cable, USB, solar panels, etc,,, and all grounds must
be bonded to main household ground rod Homes that are properly grounded as less susceptible to damage from surge and damage from lightning strike |
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 Example shows solar panels... but also includes pool control centers etc |
✔
32. Behavior that will
save
money: Ground all electrical
devices, and all household
grounds together and bond to main breaker
panel and to ground rod
Do not ground to water pipe: Make sure ground is connected to ground rod Family safety/ extend life of water heater/ resist surge damage/ resist lightning damage Water heaters and metal water pipes corrode with stray current corrosion. Modern pex water lines are not affected, and cannot be used as a ground. When installing new water heater, water pipe, doing repairs on plumbing, installing new electric service etc... check that all electric is connected to dedicated ground wire that is bonded to outdoor ground rod Bonded means steel electric panel enclosure must be directly connected to local ground rod Buy: Ground rod and clamps at Amazon Bonding lugs Resources: Why ground is important Basic household wiring See inside main breaker box What is 3-phase electric How to wire T100 series timers How to wire Control centers |
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 Larger image Image of shorted element |
✔
32a. Behavior that will
save
money: Prevent
electrocution/ injury/ damage from lightning: Family safety Electrically ground gas and electric water heater Check that water heater is bonded to electrical ground at main panel: this action will prevent electrocution. Add a ground screw directly to metal tank, and run ground wire to grounding busbar on main panel. Applies to gas and electric water heaters. Many gas water heaters are connected to electrical outlet for power vent, or damper etc Electric water heaters have ground screw. Make sure ground wire from main panel is connected to screw. Attach ground wire from both hot and cold pipes to ground screw. Shorts can occur if electric heating element touches anode rod, or if element cracks inside electric heating element. Resource Troubleshoot electric water heater |
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 Keep
insulation away
from top of gas water heater.
Larger imageInsulate both hot and cold pipes. |
✔
32b. Behavior
that can save money: Electrically
ground water heater pipes Save cost of plumbing repairs/ gas and electric heaters Resources This applies to older homes without plastic pipe. Homes with all copper or galvanized should be properly grounded to ground rod, and never grounded to plumbing pipes. Water heaters that rust out quickly might be connected to water pipes that are not grounded to ground rod. Does not apply to pex pipe Hot water pipes are not grounded in many homes. Read Pdf To get 'rid of stray current corrosion, jumper between hot and cold pipes with #6 solid copper wire. And check that cold water pipe is grounded to main panel and to grounding rod. Check that water heater is bonded to electrical ground: this action will prevent electrocution. Example image on left shows: ground wire, di-electric nipples, heat-traps, and pipe insulation With gas water heater, keep insulation above top of tank With electric water heater, pipes can be fully insulated Attach vent hood to water heater using 3 sheet metal screws Connect each vent join with 3 sheet metal screws Read about low hot water pressure and clogged pipes Buy: Ground clamps at Amazon Ground clamps at Amazon Ground clamp Amazon |
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✔
33. Behavior
that will save money: Electric
water heater: use 30 amp
breaker and 10 gauge wire
Save cost of replacing circuit breaker/ and main breaker panel Use 30 amp breaker and 10 gauge wire on household 4500-5500 watt water heater up to 100' from breaker box. Use 40 amp breaker and #6 wire for longer distances. Do not use 12 gauge wire and 20 amp breaker. Correctly-sized 30 amp circuit runs cooler = less amp loss from resistance heat = more efficient use of electricity Circuit breaker and breaker box last longer Resources Color code for wire/ breaker size How to replace circuit breaker Figure volts amps for water heater |
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Safety
action: If circuit breaker
is undersized,
or if breakers feel warm Fire safety/ cost of electric repairs Resources a) Install 3500 watt elements instead of 4500 watt elements. Recovery is slower by 6 gallon per hour. Circuit breaker load is reduced. How to replace element b) Convert water heater to 120Volt and draw 1/4 watts and amperage How to convert to 120Volt Related links: How to repair: water heater is blowing breaker Off-peak water heater ideas Troubleshoot household electricity/ stress-test circuit breakers Choose correct wire and breaker How to replace circuit breaker |
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 Avoid tankless promotion |
✔
34. Avoid
tankless water heater promotion.
All costs are energy: tankless computers do not save money Resources Saving money with tankless is highly questionable for average 4-person home. Read side-by-side test results All costs are energy. Tankless have a place in the market but are over-promoted with exaggerated claim of endless hot water, savings and longevity. All costs are energy including need for larger gas line, required yearly deliming, and reduced output in cold winter months. Read installation manual and ask questions. Look at parts sheet and ask about repairs costs, and complete lack of service manuals, and possible lack of qualified local service tech. Troubleshoot Rheem tankless Troubleshoot Bosch tankless |
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Can
you fix it yourself? |
Generally:
Heat pump, hybrid water, tankless heaters repairs are expensive,
repairs are
usually not do-it-yourself, since these water heaters are complicated
electronic machines. These water heater are more expensive, and
generally cannot be maintained to
last longer than 10-12 years. Repairs and replacement cost must factor
into anticipated savings estimate, since one repair can wipe out years
of manufacturer's claimed savings. Tankless repairs are expensive. Warranty does not match promotion. Tankless are maintenance heavy. Anticipated savings shown in promo literature does not factor repairs, maintenance and replacement. |
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 Connect coil to cold water line |
✔ 35.
Behavior
& product that might save money: Drain-water
heat recovery DWHR Net savings undetermined DIY installation $7-800? If you can do it cheap, it might pay back ... Very limited application, only works with shower or hand wash when excess hot water from usage is going down the drain same time as cold is entering tank. Heat from laundry, bath, dishwasher is not recovered because hot water is draining long after cold water entered tank. Disconnect unit when doing plumbing repairs, and flush pipe before reconnecting.. so dislodged material won't catch and stop up unit. Shower heat recovery estimated at 60%. That seems high for typical heat exchanger. Buy: Drain water heat recovery Resources See pie chart Government energy site See GFX heat exchanger video Read: good write up on drain water heat recovery |
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✔ 36. Behavior
that will save money: Re-purpose
old water heater Support conservative causes and conserve resources Water heater steel can be recycled at local recycle center or through a 'scrapper' etc. If tank does not have leak, disinfect with hydrogen peroxide, and re-purpose as tempering tank, passive solar collector, rain barrel etc Buy: Recycling books Resources Recycle the metal Use old tank to make tempering tank Use old tank to make Solar collector |
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 Temporary pressure gauge Buy: Water pressure gauge  Permanent pressure gauge Buy: Pressure gages at Amazon |
✔ 37. Behavior
& products that will save money: Avoid water pressure
over 80psi Save cost of water heater replacement and plumbing repairs Water pressure: Pressure over 80 psi can damage water heater High pressure will also shorten life of plumbing fixtures, and cause washing machine hoses to rupture, etc. Connect pressure gauge to water heater drain valve to check pressure. Buy: Water pressure gauge Temperature pressure gauge Symptoms: TP valve goes bad frequently. Cause: Closed system because of check valve or faulty pressure valve, or community water problem or water well pressure set too high. Install pressure reducing valve. Replace check valve. People with water well > turn down pressure on water well > save both hot and cold water, save electricity, and well equipment lasts longer. Resources Test and diagnose TP valve problems How to test pressure |
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✔ 38. Product
that will save money if pressure is high: Pressure
reducing valve
When using pressure reducing valve, install expansion tank on cold water line between pressure reducing valve and water heater Save cost of water heater replacement and plumbing repairs High pressure over 80psi can damage water heater and plumbing Install expansion tank, and/or pressure reducing valve Pressure reducing valve is installed on supply line to regulate and stabilize flow pressure Buy: Pressure reducing valves Pressure regulating valves at Amazon Resource: Identify and repair water heater valves |
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 Installed on cold water line Expansion tanks at Amazon  |
✔ 39. Product that will
save
money if system is closed: Expansion tank Save cost of water heater replacement and plumbing repairs Heating water causes water to expand. Expanding water is normally pushed back out incoming cold water line to city water supply or back into water well pressure tank where it is equalized. If incoming cold water line has pressure reducing valve or one-way check valve, the pressure from heating water can become extreme. High pressure damages tank and plumbing fixtures. Expansion tank is put anywhere on incoming cold water line between pressure or check valve and water heater Buy: Expansion tanks at Amazon Expansion tank reduces risk of catastrophic water heater rupture leading to water damage and could prolong life of appliance. Resources Read about expansion tanks Read about expansion tanks and closed system Expansion Tank Installation pdf |
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 Digital controls and electronic gas controls can fail with surge  |
✔
40. Product
that will save money: Protect water heater
electronics with surge protector Save cost of repair and replacement Gas water heaters that plug into outlets are not protected from surge. Surge protection outlet is correct choice for reliable electrical connection. The closer surge is located to water heater, the better it protects. The gas control valves, blowers and electronics are vulnerable and expensive to replace. Multiple surge protection on same circuit is ok, so you can wire whole house surge protector into main breaker box and add surge outlet where heater plugs in.  BuySurge outlet Whole house surge protectors at Amazon Resource: Whole house surge Water heaters that connect to electricity should have dedicated outlet with correct polarity and ground Buy Klein testers Outlet tester |
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 Larger image Water heater stands at Amazon |
✔
41. Behavior
that can save money: Install
gas
water heater 18" off floor Save property damage and avoid fire hazard .................to avoid flammable vapors and flood damage. Hydrocarbon vapors from gasoline, fuel and thinners stay low to ground. Raising water heater will prevent flammable vapor ignition, and repairs if water heater goes into lockout. Do not set gas water heater on carpet. Must be on wood or metal surface. Buy: Water heater stands Resources: Read how to troubleshoot gas water heater Read about flooded water heater |
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 |
✔
42. Exterior
air inlet for gas water heaters: Undetermined savings Conditions where outdoor air supply is needed One Sq inch of air intake is required per 4000 BTU. Gas heaters draw air into combustion chamber as gas burns and heat goes up vent pipe. Air enters house through cracks from outside and works against heat and air conditioning. There are applications where a direct from outside opening can benefit as long as heater and pipes will not freeze. For example, manufactured home, trailer, house on blocks, or outdoor storage cabinet. Incoming air supply must be clean and free from dirt, dust, chemicals etc. Gas heaters that are designed for high-output will draw more air than typical gas heater. Tankless gas heaters also draw more air as they consume large amounts of gas to heat water as it passes in pipe. Lack of sufficient air causes 'recirculation of combustion product' causing CO risk to occupants. Consult product manual. Read Pdf Ventilating tight-house/ pdf See illustration pg4 |
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 |
✔
43. Protect
gas
water heater Save water heater repairs and replacement -Avoid dusty environment that will clog air intake, cause unburned fuel, and create fire hazard -Do not install cold water line above gas valve where condensation drips on valve. -Annually clean burner area with wire brush and vacuum cleaner. How to install gas water heater -Remove chemicals from same room as water heater. -Chemicals corrode water heater parts and vent pipe. 'Spray propellants, cleaning solvents, refrigerants, swimming pool chemicals, calcium and sodium chloride, household bleach, waxes and process chemicals are corrosive at very low levels with no odor." Read Bradford White Pdf pg2-8 Read Rheem pdf |
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✔ 44. Behavior
that will save money: Do
not expose gas water heater to flammable vapor
Save loss of life and home. Save possible replacement of water heater. Read1 about FVIR Read2 about FVIR This applies to gas water heaters and electric heat pump water heaters. Today's gas water heaters require more clean air, and no exposure to flammables. Flammable vapor ignition retardation system is mandatory on gas water heaters due to casualty and property loss by insurance industry. Specific things cause FVIR to trip including poor air quality, bad vent, dirty combustion parts, clogged air intake, and exposure to flammable vapors. FVIR senses ignition of flammable vapor from solvent or fuel, and shuts access between flame and fuel. Thus preventing flashover or explosion that will save your life. Flammable vapor event can require replacement of water heater. Do not store gasoline in unapproved or open container. Read household product labels for flammable warnings. Turn off burner and pilot when using flammables Buy: Gas safety cans at Amazon |
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|
✔ 44a.
Behavior
that will save money: Do
not expose heat-pump water heater or tankless gas water heater to
flammable vapor
Save loss of life and home. Save possible replacement of water heater. This applies to electric heat pump water heater... Applies to tankless gas water heater Applies to fireplace, space heater, gas stove etc. |
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 |
✔ 45. Behavior
that will save money: Keep arrestor
screen clean
Read about arrestor screen by brand water heater Dirty air intake screen will cause FV lockout. Slower air means slower venting, yet same amount of gas is burned, causing overheated combustion chamber, and FV trips. Read water heater manual for advisories Read2 Water heater precautions |
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✔ 46. Behaviors
that will save money: Water
heater safety precautions Save property damage and avoid fire Prevent loss and damage Leave home immediately if you smell gas Water heater precautions How to install gas water heater Buy: Rechargeable fire extinguisher |
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 |
✔ 46a. Product
that can save lives/ carbon monoxide detector / CO detector
Undetermined savings/ safety Carbon monoxide detector, Combustion of natural gas produces Carbon monoxide, Nitrogen oxide, Sulfur oxide, Carbon dioxide and acidic water Carbon monoxide CO is deadly Symptoms of CO poisoning: headache that goes away when leaving house, affected people can pass out, and suffocate, move people immediately outside to fresh air and lay on side. Affected people need fresh air and oxygen in the lungs. Do not leave affected people laying on back, must lay on side Call for emergency immediately, open windows to ventilate space, call plumber and call gas company for inspection and repairs Symptoms of improper gas appliance venting include soot on top of water heater, loose vent pipes, holes and white condensate on pipes, frequent pilot outage, headaches that go away after leaving house and lethargic people Buy: Battery powered carbon monoxide detector/ best seller Carbon monoxide detectors at Amazon Smoke detectors at Amazon Resource: Is natural gas clean burning... NO ... read more |
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 Average ground water temp✔ 47. Geothermal might save money Unknown savings Compare costs with average underground temperatures Geothermal energy: all underground water pipes are geothermally heated. Geothermal heat prevents pipes from freezing / except extreme latitudes Underground water pipes are energy battery Each home and community benefits from geothermal heat that protects pipes from freezing See average ground temperatures  Geothermal
self-help forumGeothermal can be from volcanic heat. Or from local ground temperatures. All water that enters home in underground pipe is geothermally heated. Incoming cold water causes water heater to run more. See chart "Ground and water temperatures, 6 feet below the earth's surface, stay relatively constant throughout the year. This allows the system to provide extremely efficient heating or cooling all year long in virtually any climate. Sometimes the term "environmental comfort system" is used to describe a geothermal heat pump. This happens because a heat pump absorbs or rejects heat from the earth and has absolutely no impact on the environment." https://www.bosch-climate.us https://www.bosch-climate.us/bosch-geo/ Lennox geothermal |
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 Larger image Original image: death of a planet '97 |
✔ 48. Understand
greenhouse gas Paradox: liberals want to conserve and conservatives want to consume the earth Burning hydrocarbon fuel releases NOx, CO2, CO, SO and acidic water vapor Breathe
this and die. A = B
-''CO2 is the 'ash' from the combustion of carbon, so it's already at the bottom of the energy scale. To make CO2 do anything, you have to add energy somehow or cause it to react with something else that gives it energy'' -Reduce consumption today using this webpage. Water heaters are allowed to release CO2 without limit. There are no abatements possible. Natural gas:
84,470 BTU produces 1 pound of carbon dioxide
Propane gas: 62,893 BTU produces 1 pound of carbon dioxide Coal (electricity): 47,780 BTU produces 1 pound of carbon dioxide Electric water heaters produce more carbon : Carbon from generating electricity at power plant is centralized and could be abated if a technique existed Gas water heaters, and gas appliances at each home and business release carbon from vent stacks across the globe. Resource: Carbon footprint calculator Some states mandate Low Nox heater to reduce at least 1 greenhouse gas. Resources Low NOx information Converting to solar water heating and reducing consumption like rest of world is ONLY solution Resource: Solar water heating ideas |
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✔ 49. Save
and read product manual Save $4 per month, save $300-400 repair bill Read everything in manual. Record date of purchase and warranty period Follow maintenance schedule and installation advisories Manual will save money and heater will last longer. Read product manual. Install gas water heater yourself Resources 1) Read about anode rods 2) Read about stray current corrosion 3) How to flush water heater 4) Water heater safety precautions 5) Find manual: Water heater manufacturers E-mail and I might have manual posted: geno03245w@gmail.com 6) Warranties 7) Best gas water heater |
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 | Buy
from my affiliate links every time/ thanks: Amazon As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases Enter Amazon from any link on my site, fill cart with any item ... purchases pay small commission E-mail: geno03245w@gmail.com My response might end up in spam folder, check email folders Waterheatertimer on Twitter Message thru facebook |
