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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
Single handle faucet


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


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
Take a shower 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
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
Shower shut off
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
Bath uses 12-14 gallons hot water
Take showers instead of bath.
Safety grab bar
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.
Resources
Read: how much hot water for bath/ shower 
Read: how much does it cost to run water heater

Large bathtubs...
Require bigger water heater


Remember the water cools off as tub fills
Air bubbles cool the water
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
condensing heaters 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
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
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
Turn off 2nd water heater 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
dripping faucet 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
Automatic water heater shut off valve
Automatic shut off valve
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
Honeywell mixing device

mixing valve
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
cost of hot water
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.
Solar heat
Buy:
Home design books
Resources:
Tempering tank
Heat traps
Distance water travels in pipe
How much hot water is used for bath and shower
✔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
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
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
Earthquake-proof water heater
Earthquake straps at Amazon

12. Product, behavior, science that can save money: Earthquake-proof water heater
Save property damage and possible fire
Resources
Read 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
Flooded water heater 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

How to maintain water heater
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:
Flush tank each 6 months
Inspect for leaks each 6 months
Check and replace anode rod each 1-3 years
Check pressure/ pressure should not exceed 80 psi
Read and save product manual
Troubleshoot resources for electric
Troubleshoot resources for gas
Troubleshoot tankless
Safety precautions
More Do-it-yourself resources
Protect heater: Install whole house surge
Replace anode rod
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
Clean sediment out of electric water heater
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.
Water heater leaking 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
Drip pan
Drip pan saves damage
See drip pan installation
Buy:
Water heater drip pans at Amazon
Buy:
Water detectors at Amazon
Auto-shut-off valve at Amazon
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
minerals in water
Clean out tank
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
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
change water heater thermostat


How to adjust thermostat down to 120°
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

Fewer BTUs
Larger image
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
wrap water heater
Insulate tank
See illustration

TP valve
Do not obstruct or cap off TP
Tank drain
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
IR infrared temperature gun 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
Insulate TP valve 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
pipe insulation
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
Insulate water heater
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.
Electric meter  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

solar recirculation system
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
Photovoltaic water heater 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
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.
Tempering tank
Tempering tank
Larger image
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
two water heaters 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
Hot water recirculation system
Larger image
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
Under counter water heater 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
tankless under counter 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
Washing machine 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
Product promotion that has nothing to do with water heater
clothes dryergrabber
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
Install water heater timer

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

See water heater timer installation

Family chart for setting water heater timer,
based on incoming water temperature
Off peak water heater timer ✔ 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.
Di-electric union

remove water heater nipple
30. Product that will save money: Prevent electrolytic corrosion/ & connection failure
Save cost of plumbing repairs
Applies to galvanized pipe. Pex pipe does not cause electrolytic corrosion
Lengthen lifespan of water heater and protect plumbing from deterioration.
Use di-electric nipple with plastic lining when connecting pipes to water heater. Image on left shows failed di-electric unions. Failed because washer wore out. Di-electric nipples do not require washer. Some folks prefer brass fittings since they do not corrode.
Di-electric prevents electrolytic corrosion or electrolysis caused when different metals are connected together.
Different metal pipes can also cause
Resources
Low Hot Water Pressure
How to replace short nipple
Di-electric nipples
Buy:
Dielectric nipples at Amazon
brass elbow and nipple

stainless pipe fittings

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

water heater connections

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

heat trap
Minimum 6"
heat traps
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

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
how to bond control panel
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

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

Keep insulation away from top of gas water heater.
Insulate both hot and cold pipes.
Larger image
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
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
hot breaker 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
Repair tankless water heater
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
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.
Drain water heat recovery
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
Re purpose old water heater 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


Temporary pressure gauge
Buy:
Water pressure gauge

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
Pressure reducing valve 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
expansion tank
Installed on cold water line
Expansion tanks at Amazon

expansion tank
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

Lightning strike
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.

Buy
Surge 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
Raise water heater 18" off floor
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
Combustion air 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

Dusty environments 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

Trace chemicals
flammable vapors
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
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.
close up water heater air intake 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
How to install gas water heater
45a. Keep air intake clean - gas heater
Save water heater repairs and replacement
Some gas water heaters have air intake located on bottom of heater. 
Set this heater on bricks so air intake can be cleaned.
Read manual thoroughly. 
Clean air intake frequently.
Keep water heater area free of lint, chemicals and solvents that clog air intake or cause deterioration of combustion parts or trip FVIR.
Read water heater safety precautions
Clean air intake
How to clean air intake frequently
Exploded house 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

Carbon monoxide detector 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
Geothermal heatAverage 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
Average groundwater temperatureGeothermal self-help forum
Geothermal 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
Greenhouse gas
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
Water heater manual 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
Buy
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Hayward pool
Pentair pool

Southwire electric
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Tools

DEWALT
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Stanley
SKIL
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Klein hand tools
Fluke electrical testing
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Campbell Hausfeld air powered
Tekton automotive

Powerbuilt automotive
Saws and saw blades
box timers Resource:
Compare box timers
DPDT timers
Intermatic
Control water heater w/ Z-wave
Intermatic control centers Resource:
Intermatic control centers: and parts
Digital control centers and parts
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Subpanels
All control centers and parts
Enclosures
programmable timer Resource:
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Countdown timers
Off delay timers
On delay timers
Timer modules
Din rail
Twin & one-shot
Woods
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Tork
Low voltage power packs Recirculation systems
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