How to Reduce Water Heater Energy Costs

How to Reduce Water Heater Energy Costs near me Tampa, Lakeland, Orlando Florida by Sameday bc fix hot water heater Repair, Replacement, Installation Service person guy or company Near Me is the best way to find who can fix, installment, replacing or changing out Electric, natural or propane gas hot water tank or tankless affordable cost. Give our Water Heater repairman guy specialist technician a call for faster emergency service to get a quick over the phone quote price on repairing or replace service and get hot water again.

If you are around Orlando, Orange County, Sanford, Seminole County, Kissimmee, Osceola County, Clermont, Lake County 407-988-2500, Lakeland, Winter Haven, Polk County, Sebring, Avon Park, Highland County, 863-302-9700, Tampa, Brandon, Hillsborough County, St Pete, Clearwater, Pinellas County, Wesley Chapel, New Port Richey, Pasco County, FL 813-733-6900.

Our certified water heater technician is open 7 days a week from Monday-Sun 8AM-9PM to find someone or a water heater plumbing company who can fixes your hot water heater size 30, 40, 50 gallons hot water tank from brand like: A.O. Smith, Rheem, Kenmore, Bradford White, American Standard, State Select, Reliance, Whirlpool, General Electric, Ruud on Saturday, Sunday weekend includes some holidays to serve you if your Water Heater is not working or get 3-5mins hot water and then go cold in shower in your house home service. We serve homeowners, real estate investors, landlords and property management tenants in your area or nearby around me and get them some hot water again at their convenience.

Your water heater may be out of sight, tucked away in a utility closet or basement, but it’s one of the biggest energy consumers in your home. In fact, water heating typically accounts for about 18–25% of your household energy bill, second only to heating and cooling systems. The good news? With a few adjustments and upgrades, you can significantly reduce your water heater energy costs without sacrificing comfort.

This guide walks you through practical, effective ways to lower your water heater’s energy usage, whether you have a traditional tank-style unit or a high-efficiency tankless system.

Key Takeaway: Small Changes Equal Big Savings

Lowering your water heater energy costs doesn’t require a complete system overhaul. Simple actions—like lowering the thermostat, insulating pipes, and flushing your tank—can deliver noticeable savings over time. Combine these steps with energy-efficient upgrades for maximum impact.

1. Lower the Thermostat Temperature

Most water heaters come pre-set to 140°F, but for most homes, 120°F is more than enough. Not only is this temperature safer (reducing scalding risk), but it also requires less energy to maintain.

Benefits of Lowering the Temp to 120°F:

Reduces standby heat loss (energy lost while water sits in the tank).
Lowers risk of mineral buildup and corrosion in the tank.
Cuts energy consumption by 4–10% for every 10°F reduction.

How to Do It:

Electric units: Remove the panel cover on the thermostat, adjust the dial, and reattach the panel.
Gas units: Use the control knob near the base of the tank to adjust.

Be sure to wait a day and check water temperature at the tap with a thermometer to fine-tune as needed.

2. Insulate the Tank and Pipes

An older or uninsulated water heater loses heat to the surrounding air—especially if located in a cold space like a garage or basement. You can reduce this heat loss by wrapping your water heater in an insulation blanket and insulating the first several feet of water pipes.

Steps to Insulate Your Tank and Pipes:

Purchase a water heater insulation blanket (less than $30 at most home stores).
Cut the blanket to fit, being careful not to cover the thermostat or burner access panel.
Insulate hot water pipes with foam pipe sleeves, especially those within 3 feet of the tank.

Savings Potential:

Up to 10% reduction in water heating costs.
Water stays hotter longer, reducing the number of heating cycles.

3. Use Less Hot Water

It may sound obvious, but reducing the amount of hot water you use is one of the fastest ways to cut energy costs. The less hot water you draw, the less your water heater has to work to recover as hot water repairs near me.

Simple Ways to Use Less Hot Water:

Install low-flow showerheads and faucet aerators.
Fix leaks—a hot water leak wastes both water and energy.
Take shorter showers.
Run dishwashers and washing machines only when full.

Every gallon you save reduces the workload on your heater and lowers your utility bills.

4. Flush Your Water Heater Regularly

Over time, sediment builds up at the bottom of a water heater tank, especially in areas with hard water. This sediment acts as a barrier between the heating element and the water, forcing the system to work harder and use more energy.

How to Flush Your Tank:

Turn off the water heater and cold water supply.
Attach a garden hose to the drain valve and direct it to a floor drain or outside.
Open the valve and let the water drain out.
Close the valve, turn the water supply back on, and restart the heater.

Flushing the tank once or twice a year can keep your system running efficiently and extend its lifespan.

5. Install a Timer on Electric Water Heaters

Electric water heaters continuously use power to maintain the tank temperature—even when hot water isn’t needed. A water heater timer allows you to program the unit to turn off during periods of low demand, like overnight or when you’re at work.

Why It Helps:

Prevents unnecessary energy use.
Useful for second homes, vacation properties, or irregular usage patterns.

Estimated Savings:

Up to $25–$50 per year, depending on usage habits and energy rates.

6. Consider Heat Traps or Heat Trap Fittings

Heat naturally rises, and that includes heated water. If your pipes aren’t equipped with heat traps, hot water can escape up the pipes even when it’s not in use, leading to energy loss.

Many newer water heaters come with heat traps built-in, but older models can be retrofitted.

Cost & Benefit:

Heat trap fittings cost around $10–$30.
They can reduce standby losses by up to 60% in some systems.

7. Upgrade to an Energy-Efficient Water Heater

If your water heater is more than 10 years old, upgrading to a newer, high-efficiency model can dramatically reduce your energy use.

Popular Energy-Efficient Options:

Tankless (On-Demand) Water Heaters: Heat water only when needed, eliminating standby losses.
Heat Pump Water Heaters (Hybrid): Use electricity to move heat rather than generate it, making them 2–3 times more efficient.
Condensing Gas Water Heaters: Capture and reuse heat from exhaust gases.

Look for Energy Star-rated units to ensure you’re getting a high-efficiency appliance.

8. Maintain the Anode Rod

The anode rod helps prevent your water heater tank from rusting. But once it deteriorates, your tank becomes vulnerable to corrosion and leaks. A corroded tank works harder and loses efficiency.

How to Check & Replace the Rod:

Turn off the water heater.
Unscrew the rod from the top of the tank using a socket wrench.
If it’s heavily corroded or under ½ inch thick, replace it.

Why It Matters:

Prevents sediment buildup and corrosion.
Helps the system heat water more efficiently and last longer.

9. Use Cold Water When Possible

Hot water is essential for bathing and sanitizing, but it’s not always necessary for everything. Using cold water for laundry, brushing your teeth, and simple cleaning tasks can help reduce water heater usage.

Also, setting your washing machine to cold water washes can save thousands of gallons of heated water annually—and it’s gentler on clothes.

10. Schedule Annual Professional Maintenance

While DIY maintenance goes a long way, a professional plumber can spot efficiency issues before they become costly problems. Annual maintenance includes:

Checking for gas leaks or faulty wiring.
Flushing the tank more thoroughly.
Testing the thermostat, T&P valve, and heating elements.
Checking for scale buildup in tankless units.

Cost vs. Savings:

A typical maintenance check costs around $100–$150.
It can prevent major failures, maintain efficiency, and extend the heater’s lifespan—saving hundreds in the long run.

Bonus: Take Advantage of Rebates and Incentives

Many utility companies and local governments offer rebates for upgrading to energy-efficient water heaters. Some also provide free or low-cost insulation kits and water-saving devices.

Where to Look:

Energy Star rebate finder
Local government energy efficiency programs
Utility company websites

These incentives can make a high-efficiency upgrade much more affordable.

Estimated Savings by Action (Annual Averages)

Action	Estimated Savings
Lowering thermostat to 120°F	$30–$60
Insulating tank and pipes	$20–$50
Installing low-flow fixtures	$50–$100
Flushing the tank regularly	$15–$30
Installing a timer (electric units)	$25–$50
Upgrading to Energy Star model	$100–$300+

Conclusion

Reducing your water heater energy costs doesn’t have to involve a massive overhaul. Simple steps—like adjusting the thermostat, using cold water more often, and flushing the tank—can lead to noticeable savings. Pair these with smart upgrades, like insulation or a more efficient unit, and you’ll enjoy both immediate and long-term financial benefits.

Better yet, you’ll reduce your carbon footprint, extend the life of your equipment, and ensure consistent, reliable hot water for your household. With just a few proactive steps, your water heater can become a lean, energy-saving machine.

Gas Water Heater Not Heating or Working How to Troubleshoot Your water heater thermocouple How to Light or Relight Your Water Heater Pilot light and thermostats gas control valve, leaking pressure or drain relief valve replacement not working, Pilot light won’t stay lit, Water Heater Pilot Keeps Going out.

Top 5 Way To Fixes Repair & Replace Natural or Propane Gas If Your Hot Water Heater Tank is leaking pressure or drain relief valve replacement

Best Way On How To make Change, Adjustment or Increase Electric Water Heater Temperature

Electric Water Heater Not Heating Water heating element and thermostats not working And Breaker Is Tripped Troubleshooting Tips

How to make Change, Adjustment or Increase Temperature on Your Natural or Propane Gas Water Heater Setting Control

How to Quickly Turn off Leaking Gas Hot Water Heater Emergency Water and Gas Shut Off Leaky Tank

How to Relight, Reignite the Pilot Not Lighting in Water Heater burner die quickly Repair & Replace

Why Your Water Heater Tank Making Strange Noise Sounds

We Are open on Saturday; Sunday weekend include some holidays to serve you anywhere in central Florida like Hillsborough County, Apollo Beach, Balm, Bloomingdale, Cheval, Dover, East Lake-Orient Park, Egypt Lake-Leto, Fish Hawk, Gibsonton, Keystone, Lake Magdalene, Mango, Northdale, Palm River-Clair Mel, Pebble Creek, Progress Village, Seffner, Thonotosassa, University, Westchase, Wimauma, Pinellas county, Bardmoor, Bay Pines, Bear Creek, Belleair Beach, Belleair Bluffs, Belleair Shores, Feather Sound, Greenbriar, Gulfport, Harbor Bluffs, Indian Rocks Beach, Indian Shores, Kenneth City, Madeira Beach, North Redington Beach, Oldsmar, Redington Beach, Redington Shores, Ridgecrest, Safety Harbor, South Highpoint, South Pasadena, St Pete Beach, Tierra Verde, Treasure Island, West Pasco County, Aripeka, Bayonet Point, Beacon Square, Connerton, Crystal Springs, Dade City, Dade City North, Elfers, Heritage Pines, Hudson, Jasmine Estates, Key Vista, Lacoochee, Meadow Oaks, Moon Lake, New Port Richey East, Odessa, Pasadena Hills, Port Richey, Quail Ridge, Ridge Manor, River Ridge, San Antonio, Shady Hills, Saint Leo, Trilby, Trinity, Zephyrhills, Zephyrhills North, Zephyrhills South, Zephyrhills West, Orange County, Azalea Park, Bay Hill, Bay Lake, Belle Isle, Bithlo, Christmas, Clarcona, Conway, Doctor Phillips, Eatonville, Edgewood, Fairview Shores, Goldenrod, Gotha, Holden Heights, Horizon West, Hunters Creek, Lake Buena Vista, Lake Butler, Lake Hart, Lake Mary Jane, Lockhart, Maitland, Oak Ridge, Oakland, Orlovista, Paradise Heights, Pine Castle, Rio Pinar, Sky Lake, South Apopka, Southchase, Taft, Tangelo Park, Tangerine, Tildenville, Union Park, University, Wedgefield, Williamsburg, Windermere, Winter Garden, Zellwood, Seminole County, Black Hammock, Chuluota, Fern Park, Forest City, Geneva, Goldenrod, Heathrow, Midway, Wekiwa Springs, Osceola County, Buenaventura Lakes, Campbell, Celebration, Four Corners, Yeehaw Junction, Polk County, Alturas, Babson Park, Bradley Junction, Combee Settlement, Crooked Lake Park, Crystal Lake, Cypress Gardens, Dundee, Eagle Lake, Fort Meade, Frostproof, Fuller Heights, Fussels Corner, Grenelefe, Highland City, Highland Park, Hillcrest Heights, Homeland, Inwood, Jan-Phyl Village, Kathleen, Lake Alfred, Lake Hamilton, Lakeland Highlands, Loughman, Medulla, Mulberry, Polk City, Wahneta, Waverly, Willow Oak, Highlands County, Avon Park, Lake Placid, Sebring, 33510, 33511, 33527, 33534, 33540, 33544, 33547, 33548, 33549, 33556, 33558, 33559, 33563, 33565, 33566, 33567, 33569, 33570, 33572, 33573, 33578, 33579, 33584, 33592, 33594, 33596, 33598, 33602, 33603, 33604, 33605, 33606, 33607, 33609, 33610, 33611, 33612, 33613, 33614, 33615, 33616, 33617, 33618, 33619, 33621, 33624, 33625, 33626, 33629, 33634, 33635, 33637, 33647, 33810, 33860, 33503, 33508, 33509, 33530, 33550, 33564, 33568, 33571, 33575, 33583, 33586, 33587, 33595, 33601, 33608, 33622, 33623, 33630, 33631, 33646, 33672, 33673, 33674, 33675, 33677, 33679, 33680, 33681, 33682, 33684, 33685, 33686, 33687, 33688, 33689, 33694, 33620, 33633, 33650, 33655, 33660, 33664, 33701, 33702, 33703, 33704, 33705, 33706, 33707, 33708, 33709, 33710, 33711, 33712, 33713, 33714, 33715, 33716, 33730, 33755, 33756, 33759, 33760, 33761, 33762, 33763, 33764, 33765, 33767, 33770, 33771, 33772, 33773, 33774, 33776, 33777, 33778, 33781, 33782, 33785, 33786, 34677, 34683, 34684, 34685, 34688, 34689, 34695, 34698, 33731, 33732, 33733, 33734, 33736, 33738, 33740, 33741, 33742, 33743, 33744, 33747, 33757, 33758, 33766, 33775, 33779, 33780, 33784, 34660, 34681, 34682, 34697, 33729, 33769, 33523, 33525, 33540, 33541, 33542, 33543, 33544, 33545, 33548, 33549, 33556, 33558, 33559, 33576, 33597, 33809, 33849, 34610, 34637, 34638, 34639, 34652, 34653, 34654, 34655, 34667, 34668, 34669, 34690, 34691, 33524, 33526, 33537, 33539, 33574, 33593, 34656, 34673, 34674, 34679, 34680, 34692, 32703, 32709, 32712, 32751, 32757, 32776, 32789, 32792, 32798, 32801, 32803, 32804, 32805, 32806, 32807, 32808, 32809, 32810, 32811, 32812, 32814, 32817, 32818, 32819, 32820, 32821, 32822, 32824, 32825, 32826, 32827, 32828, 32829, 32831, 32832, 32833, 32834, 32835, 32836, 32837, 32839, 34734, 34747, 34761, 34786, 34787, 32704, 32710, 32768, 32777, 32790, 32793, 32794, 32802, 32830, 32853, 32854, 32855, 32856, 32857, 32858, 32859, 32860, 32861, 32862, 32867, 32868, 32869, 32872, 32877, 32878, 34740, 34760, 34777, 34778, 32816, 32885, 32886, 32887, 32891, 32896, 32897, 32701, 32703, 32707, 32708, 32714, 32730, 32732, 32746, 32750, 32751, 32765, 32766, 32771, 32773, 32779, 32792, 32715, 32716, 32718, 32719, 32733, 32745, 32747, 32752, 32762, 32772, 32791, 32795, 32799, 33896, 33897, 33898, 34739, 34741, 34743, 34744, 34746, 34747, 34758, 34759, 34769, 34771, 34772, 34773, 34972, 33848, 34742, 34745, 34770, 33547, 33801, 33803, 33805, 33809, 33810, 33811, 33812, 33813, 33815, 33823, 33825, 33827, 33830, 33834, 33837, 33838, 33839, 33841, 33843, 33844, 33849, 33850, 33853, 33859, 33860, 33867, 33868, 33880, 33881, 33884, 33896, 33897, 33898, 34714, 34759, 33802, 33804, 33806, 33807, 33820, 33831, 33835, 33836, 33840, 33845, 33846, 33847, 33851, 33854, 33855, 33856, 33858, 33863, 33877, 33882, 33883, 33885, 33888 and many more location near you.

Business Name: Tampa Fix Hot Water Heater Repair Service
Address: 201 E Kennedy Blvd #1255 Tampa, FL 33602
Phone: (813) 733-6900
Open Hours of Operations: Mon-Sun 8:00AM-9PM
Category: Water Heater Repairing, Plumbing
Website: https://samedaybcfixwaterheater.com/tampa-hot-water-heater-repair/

Business: Same-Day BC Of Lakeland Fix Hot Water Heater Repair Service
Address: 3410 Ave G NW Winter Haven, Florida 33880
Phone: 863-302-9700
Open Hours of Operations: Mon-Sun 8:00AM-9PM
Category: Water Heater Repairing, Plumbing
Website: https://samedaybcfixwaterheater.com/lakeland-hot-water-heater-repair/
https://maps.google.com/maps?cid=9832873337465580912

Business Name: Orlando Fix Hot Water Heater Repair Service
Address: 916 Colyer St Orlando, FL 32805
Phone Number: 407-988-2500
Open Hours of Operations: Mon-Sun 8:00AM-9PM
Category: Water Heater Repairing, Plumbing
Website: https://samedaybcfixwaterheater.com/orlando-hot-water-heater-repair/

Other Best Local Business services in Polk County, Florida that will provide sameday service at your convenience.

Business Name: Sell My House Fast Lakeland Florida Boracina Cash Home Buyer
Address: 6039 Cypress Gardens BLVD Winter Haven, FL 33884
Phone Number: 863-400-0799
Open Hours of Operations: Mon-Sun 8:00AM-9PM
Website: https://boracina.com/florida/we-buy-houses-lakeland-fl/
Google My Business Review: https://www.google.com/maps?cid=10150578581961208600

Business Name: LegalServicesAid Mobile Notary Public & Loan Signing Agent Service
Address: 6039 cypress gardens blvd #172 Winter haven, FL 33884
Phone Number: 863-617-7788
Open Hours of Operations: Mon-Sun 8:00AM-9PM
Google My Business Review: https://www.google.com/maps?cid=17414144096142321945

Blog