## Do Water Heater Blankets Save Energy?
Water heater blankets are a popular way to reduce heat loss from water heaters. They are typically made of fiberglass or foam insulation, and they fit snugly around the water heater tank. The idea is that by reducing heat loss, the water heater will not have to work as hard to maintain the desired temperature, which will save energy.
There is some evidence to suggest that water heater blankets can indeed save energy. A study by the Oak Ridge National Laboratory found that water heater blankets can reduce heat loss by up to 25%. This can lead to energy savings of up to 10%.
However, it is important to note that water heater blankets are not a miracle cure for high energy bills. They can only save energy if the water heater is properly sized and maintained. If the water heater is too small, it will have to work harder to maintain the desired temperature, even with a blanket. And if the water heater is not properly maintained, it will lose heat even with a blanket.
### How to Choose a Water Heater Blanket
If you are considering installing a water heater blanket, there are a few things you should keep in mind. First, make sure that the blanket is the right size for your water heater. The blanket should fit snugly around the tank, but it should not be so tight that it restricts the flow of air.
Second, choose a blanket that is made of a durable material. Fiberglass and foam insulation are both good choices. Fiberglass is less expensive, but it is not as durable as foam. Foam insulation is more expensive, but it is more durable and it can provide better insulation.
Third, look for a blanket that has a high R-value. The R-value is a measure of how well the blanket insulates. The higher the R-value, the better the blanket will insulate.
### How to Install a Water Heater Blanket
Installing a water heater blanket is a relatively simple process. First, turn off the power to the water heater. Then, remove the old blanket (if there is one). Next, place the new blanket around the water heater tank. Make sure that the blanket fits snugly, but do not overtighten it. Finally, turn the power back on to the water heater.
### Conclusion
Water heater blankets can be a cost-effective way to reduce heat loss from your water heater. However, it is important to choose the right blanket and to install it properly. By following these tips, you can save energy and money on your water heating bills.
## Additional Tips for Saving Energy on Water Heating
In addition to installing a water heater blanket, there are a number of other things you can do to save energy on water heating. Here are a few tips:
Set the water heater temperature to 120 degrees Fahrenheit. This is the recommended temperature for most households.
Take shorter showers. The average shower uses about 20 gallons of water. By taking shorter showers, you can save water and energy.
Turn off the water when you’re brushing your teeth or shaving. This can save a lot of water over time.
Fix leaky faucets. A leaky faucet can waste a lot of water and energy. If you have a leaky faucet, fix it as soon as possible.
Consider installing a solar water heater. Solar water heaters use the sun’s energy to heat water. This can be a great way to save energy and money.
By following these tips, you can save energy and money on your water heating bills.