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3.2 Water Heating Systems

This part of the Energy Efficiency Manual presents the energy conservation measures that apply to hot water heating. Water heating is a significant energy user in almost all facilities. In housing, food service establishments, and some industrial operations, water heating is a major part of total energy cost. Water heating systems usually operate continuously, so their losses are continuous.

Inefficiency in water heating is caused primarily by inefficiency of the heating equipment, and by heat loss from water storage tanks and distribution pipe. The Measures in this Subsection increase the efficiency of water heating units and systems.

If you have electric water heating, you may be able to lower your electricity costs by using interruptible water heating or by installing a storage water heating system. Both are bargains, but you must be careful to avoid problems. Here you will learn how to exploit these opportunities properly.

Should you lower your hot water temperature to save energy? It’s a tricky question. Get the answers here.