Manage Hot Water System’s Thermostat

Introduction to Hot Water System Efficiency

At Werrington Plumbing, we understand the importance of properly managing your hot water system. With over 21% of household energy usage stemming from water heating alone, minor adjustments can lead to major savings.

As industry experts in plumbing and hot water systems, we aim to provide homeowners guidance on:

• Adjusting thermostat temperatures for efficiency
• Best practices for effective insulation
• Routine maintenance tips
• Additional energy efficiency recommendations

This article provides actionable tips to enhance the efficiency of your hot water system, which could lead to lower energy bills without compromising your comfort.

Types of Hot Water Systems and How They Work

Electric Hot Water Systems

Electric hot water systems use electricity to heat water stored in an insulated tank. Thermostats control the temperature by regulating when the heating elements turn on and off. Electric systems, either standalone or combined with gas solutions, are favoured in the Werrington region for their affordability, despite their higher operational energy demands.

Gas Hot Water Systems

Gas electric systems heat water via a gas burner or heat exchanger strategically positioned under the tank. A thermostat detects when more hot water is needed and ignites the burner. Gas heaters provide hot water efficiently and are one of the more affordable options for the typical home.

Heat Pump Systems

Heat pumps use a refrigeration cycle that efficiently transfers ambient air warmth into the water tank. They utilise much less electricity compared to conventional electric units. Heat pumps excel in temperate or warm climates like Werrington and can achieve 30-60% energy savings.

Solar Hot Water Systems

Solar water heaters use free heat from the sun to warm water held in roof-mounted panels. This preheated water then flows into the storage tank. Solar systems require electric or gas backup for cloudy days but significantly reduce energy demand overall.

How Thermostats Impact Efficiency

The thermostat is essentially the accelerator of your hot water system - controlling the rate of energy used to heat water. By lowering your thermostat setting, you significantly cut back on energy demand.

Reducing your hot water system’s temperature by 5°C can reduce your energy bills by up to 10%. Make sure your system isn’t running higher than necessary, and if it is, adjust the thermostat downward for immediate savings.

A hot water temperature of 60°C is sufficient to eliminate bacteria, whereas many households set their thermostats unnecessarily high at 70-75°C. Consider a thermostat setting just above 60°C for energy conservation and a comfortable water temperature.

To adjust the temperature, access the thermostat through the side panel on electric or gas tanks and turn the dial counterclockwise 5-10 degrees.

Proper calibration of your hot water system’s thermostat optimises efficiency. Take control over one of the largest energy drains in your home.

Ideal Temperature Settings

Storage Tank Systems

For storage tank hot water systems like electric, gas, solar, or heat pump models, you should set the thermostat to 60°C.

A setting of 60°C kills bacteria effectively, prevents scalding, and maximises efficiency. Excessive temperature settings result in significant heat loss, with each degree above the recommended settings leading to unnecessary energy usage.

Continuous Flow Systems

For continuous flow systems, maintaining thermostat settings at or below 50°C helps prevent unnecessary energy consumption. These units heat water directly sans a storage tank when hot water taps are running.

Aim for a 50°C thermostat setting to prevent overheating issues common with continuous flow designs. Maintaining a 50°C setting also shortens the wait time for your hot water.

Use this table as a handy reference when adjusting your particular hot water system’s thermostat for optimal efficiency.

Adjusting Your Thermostat

Follow these essential steps to adjust your hot water system’s thermostat:

1. Locate the Access Panel - On most storage tank systems, you’ll find a rectangular metal panel on the side of the unit. This panel offers access to the controls and serves as a gateway to energy savings.
2. Switch Off Power Supply - For safety, turn off the power at the isolating switch or main switchboard before adjusting the thermostat.
3. Use Correct Tool - You’ll typically need a flathead screwdriver to turn the thermostat dial. Ensure you use the right sized screwdriver that fits snugly.
4. Lower Temperature Gradually - You can adjust the thermostat dial 5-10 degrees counter-clockwise to decrease the temperature setting effectively. We recommend lowering to 60°C.
5. Allow Time for Adjustment - It may take several hours for the adjusted temperature to stabilise within the system.
6. Check Temp and Readjust - Use a digital thermometer to validate the new hot water temperature a day later; you might able to fine-tune if necessary.

A reduction of 5 degrees can lead to savings of up to 10% on water heating costs. So take control of your energy usage and calibrate your hot water system’s thermostat today.

Insulating Pipes and Tanks

Insulating your hot water pipes and storage tank is a highly effective way to enhance your hot water system’s efficiency. Preventing heat loss as water traverses the system reduces the energy required to maintain a comfortable temperature.

Insulating pipes and tanks effectively can lead to 10-25% savings on water heating expenses for homeowners. Key benefits include:

• Reducing heat lost during standby from storage tanks
• Maintaining hot water temperature in pipes
• Minimising energy use
• Reducing carbon emissions

Use high-quality insulation materials such as polyethylene foam tubing and rubber foam blankets for pipes and tanks. Securely wrap all hot water lines from the unit to tap outlets. Then cover the top and sides of electric or gas storage tanks.

While DIY insulation is simple, for expert and hassle-free installation, get in touch with Werrington Plumbing. Investing in insulation leads to substantial savings over time.

Maintenance Tips for Maximum Efficiency

Proper maintenance keeps your hot water system operating at peak efficiency for years to come. We recommend the following tips:

• Flush Pressure Relief Valve - Every six months, release the TPR valve to clear sediment buildup and confirm its functionality.
• Check Insulation - Confirm insulation on pipes and tanks hasn’t become damaged or worn, replacing if needed.
• Inspect Anodes - Have anode rods on electric water heaters checked biannually and replaced if significantly corroded.
• Professional Servicing - Schedule a licenced plumber to service your system biennially to ensure prolonged longevity.
• Monitor Usage & Leaks - Take note of daily hot water usage and watch for signs of leaks to catch issues early.

Preventative maintenance not only optimises efficiency, but maximises the operating life of your hot water system. Routine care of your hot water system promotes reliability and cost savings.

Going Beyond the Thermostat: Additional Energy Saving Tips

In addition to thermostat calibration, other strategies can greatly improve your hot water system’s efficiency:

• Install Water-Efficient Showerheads - Low-flow showerheads reduce hot water consumption while still delivering invigorating spray.
• Take Shorter Showers - Reducing shower length by a few minutes per person preserves hot water and lessens energy used for reheating.
• Use Cold Water Where Possible - Washing hands, doing laundry, and washing dishes often don’t require hot water when cold suffices.

Consider piping separate plumbing lines to deliver cold water to toilets and garden taps. Strategically using cold water significantly cuts hot water heating costs over time.

Optimising your household’s overall water efficiency complements a properly calibrated hot water system thermostat. So enact holistic water saving habits in addition to adjusting your hot water system for maximum benefit.

When to Call a Professional

Although adjusting your hot water system’s thermostat and insulation can be DIY tasks, we recommend contacting Werrington Plumbing for these scenarios:

• Installing a new water heater
• Replacing faulty valves or heating elements
• Fixing leaks
• Servicing systems older than 5 years
• Upgrading to higher efficiency models
• Installing pipe insulation
• Solar hot water repairs

Our skilled team, equipped with the necessary expertise, tools, and resources, is ready to tackle complex plumbing jobs. A biennial check-up guarantees efficient operation of your system.

Extend your hot water system’s life or book an inspection by calling Werrington Plumbing at 1300 349 338 or emailing jobs@werringtonplumbingservices.com.au. Professional upkeep guarantees peak performance and long-term savings.