Going Green–It’s the Little Things Part IV: Waterheaters
The water heater in your store is one of the most unnoticed energy users. The water heater can account for at least 10% of the energy used in your store. The thing about the water heaters is they’re used to maintain how hot your water is when you’re not even using it! That means you’re pay extra for your water heater to be on standby.
So, what are our options? There’s plenty, actually, so let’s begin with the most extravagant first. The most dramatic way to cut energy costs from your water heater is to replace it with a more innovative, energy efficient one. Most stores have conventional water heaters that are 40-80 gallon tanks. However, there are more energy efficient models, such as the solar thermal heaters or the tankless heaters. They are a bit more expensive to install than the traditional water heater, but reduce the energy costs from your current water heater and generally last longer.
Can’t bear to feel the separation anxiety by replacing your water heater? No problem, there are alternatives. One option is to turn down the temperature. Every 10% decrease in temperature can results in a 3-5% reduction in energy costs. Most water heaters are set at 140 degrees. Reducing the temperature to 130 degrees would be unnoticeable to the water users. Many people even dial it down to 120 degrees. If families are satisfied with a shower temperature of 120 degrees, then I’m sure your store won’t even notice it—but your energy bill will.
You can also invest in a water heater blanket or jacket. Hot water heaters use a lot of energy and generate a lot of CO2. Wrapping your water heater in a jacket or blanket can reduce carbon dioxide emissions by up to 4,000 pounds a year—and the blankets only cost about $18! Just another inexpensive investment that can save your pocket—and the Earth!