Water heating is the second-largest energy user in homes, says the U.S. Department of Energy, with households typically spending between $400-$600 per year for hot water. When you replace an older tank-type model, Rheem Water Heating says you can improve your energy efficiency, thanks to recent design enhancements. Install a water heater that's earned ENERGY STARŪ certification, and you'll score even better.
May 21, 2009
A recent survey conducted by the Opinion Research Corporation showed that 80 percent of homeowners are concerned about energy efficiency in their homes. And 70 percent of those individuals are also concerned about the green in their wallets.
In that regard, it may be time to replace your old and inefficient water heater. According to the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE), 27 million American homes use a tank-type ("storage") water heater that is more than 10 years old. Typically, these appliances last less than 15 years. If you're considering replacement today, don't waste this opportunity to save money. Shop with energy efficiency in mind.
Water heating is the second-largest energy user in homes, says the DOE, with households typically spending between $400-$600 per year for hot water. When you replace an older tank-type model, Rheem Water Heating says you can improve your energy efficiency, thanks to recent design enhancements. Install a water heater that's earned ENERGY STARŪ certification, and you'll score even better.
By far, the majority of American homes currently have storage water heaters. In January, the DOE set ENERGY STAR criteria for five residential water heating categories, including high-performance gas storage models.
Tankless and solar water heaters have become well-known for their high efficiency ratings. But tank-type water heaters that comply with ENERGY STAR criteria also offer substantial savings in fuel costs.
Coupled with an affordable price tag and much lower installation costs, high-efficiency gas storage water heaters can also save you plenty of money. Recent advances include better insulation, more efficient burners with lower emissions and faster "recovery" after periods of heavy usage. Any gas storage unit carrying the ENERGY STAR label must meet the following specifications:
a minimum Energy Factor (EF) of 0.62, an indicator of energy efficiency;
a minimum First-Hour Rating requirement of 67 gallons-per-hour;
a minimum six-year limited warranty; and
compliance with the national product standard for this type of water heater: ANSI Z21.10.1/CSA 4.1.
Rheem Water Heating is an ENERGY STAR partner and the only domestic manufacturer that produces ENERGY STAR-rated tank, tankless and solar water heaters. "We offer consumers innovative home heating alternatives that help them keep the planet a little greener," says Peter Reynolds, vice president and general manager of the Water Heating Division. "When your budget is tight and it's time to replace your water heater, take a good look at high-efficiency gas storage models. Your purchase can help the planet as well as your bank account."
Still not convinced that acting locally can make a difference globally? According to the DOE, we could prevent one billion pounds of carbon dioxide from entering the atmosphere --"the equivalent of creating 132,000 acres of forest" -- if everyone planning to replace a standard gas water heater this year chose an ENERGY STAR-compliant gas storage water heater instead.
http://www.rheem.com
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