Simple Tips to Make Your Water Heater More Energy-Efficient

05/Nov/2025

A water heater is one of the largest energy consumers in a home, accounting for about 18% of a household’s total energy use. Therefore, it makes sense to implement measures that will make your water heater more energy-efficient while maintaining a consistent hot water supply. An efficient water heater will not just save you money; you’ll also reap benefits such as a longer lifespan, a reliable supply of hot water, and environmental benefits.

If your heating bills keep going up or you’re dealing with insufficient hot water, it’s time to call a local plumber to inspect your water heater and carry out repairs. Here at Mr. Rooter Plumbing, we take great pride in offering reliable water heater replacement and other services. Below, we share tips to make your water heater more energy-efficient.

Lower the Thermostat Setting

Many water heaters are factory-set to 140°F, but most households don’t need water that hot. Lowering the thermostat to 120°F can reduce energy consumption by up to 10% while still providing plenty of hot water for daily use. This small change also prevents scalding and slows mineral buildup inside the tank. If your water heater doesn’t have a digital display, use a thermometer at the tap to adjust the temperature accurately.

Insulate the Tank and Hot Water Pipes

Insulating your water heater and hot water pipes is an easy and affordable way to improve efficiency. For tank-style units, a water heater insulation blanket helps retain heat. Likewise, insulating the first few feet of hot water pipes minimizes heat loss as water travels from the heater to your faucets.

Flush the Tank Regularly

Sediment buildup is one of the most common causes of energy loss in water heaters. Over time, minerals from hard water settle at the bottom of the tank, creating a layer that forces the heating element to work harder. Flushing your tank once or twice a year helps remove this sediment, restores heating efficiency, and prevents corrosion. Regular flushing also extends the lifespan of your unit, improves water quality, and saves you money in the long run.

Install a Timer or Upgrade to an On-Demand System

If you have an electric water heater, installing a timer can help you control when the unit heats water—especially during off-peak hours when electricity rates are lower. For even greater efficiency, consider upgrading to a tankless (on-demand) water heater. These systems heat water only when needed, eliminating standby heat loss and offering long-term energy savings. If it’s time for water heater replacement, consider switching to a tankless water heater to save energy and enjoy hot water on demand.

Schedule Professional Maintenance

Even with regular homeowner care, your water heater benefits from professional attention. A licensed plumber in Grifton, NC can inspect components like the anode rod, pressure relief valve, and heating elements to ensure your system is running efficiently. Routine maintenance not only boosts performance but also helps detect small issues before they turn into expensive repairs. Do not hesitate to contact a local plumbing repair service if you notice signs of water heater trouble.

Reach Out to Mr. Rooter Plumbing for Water Heater Repair or Replacement

If you’re in need of water heater repair or replacement, Mr. Rooter Plumbing is here to help. Perhaps your hot water temperature keeps fluctuating, there are unusual noises coming from your hot water tank, or maybe your heating bills keep rising. These are signs that your water heater needs to be inspected and the problem fixed before further damage occurs. Mr. Rooter Plumbing specializes in troubleshooting and repairing all types of water heaters, including storage water heaters, tankless water heaters, hybrid units, and more.