Water Heating

Large-capacity electric water heaters

A large-capacity electric water heater can be set up on your utility’s off-peak program to draw heat energy during lower-demand times of day. The water is heated inside a specially insulated tank, which allows almost no heat loss over a 24-hour period.

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How they work

Up to 20% of the energy used in your home is for water heating, and that becomes a large portion of your monthly energy bill. By upgrading to a large-capacity electric water heater, you can save money and never worry about running out of warm water.

A large-capacity electric water heater can be set up on your utility’s off-peak program to draw heat energy during lower-demand times of day. The water is heated inside a specially insulated tank, which allows almost no heat loss over a 24-hour period. It’s ready to deploy hot water when you need it for showers, dishwashers, laundry – you name it.

Benefits

SAVINGS
Not only will your new electric water heater qualify for a lower off-peak electricity rate (up to half as much as the standard rate), but you can also receive hundreds of dollars in rebates for installation. They are often more efficient than gas or propane water heaters, saving you even more.
EASE
Electric water heaters are easy to install without the need for complicated venting, gas connections or fuel tanks.
RELIABILITY
With a large-capacity electric model, your hot water will always be there when you need it. New electric water heater tanks are built to last, with sufficient insulation (at least 2 inches of foam for an R-16 insulation value) and optional corrosion protection.

Incentives
Rebate of:
  • $125 for 55 gallons or less
  • $200 for 56-99 gallons
  • $300 for 100 gallons or greater
  • Additional $100 for new building construction
  • Additional $250 available for conversion from existing natural gas or propane to electric water heater

Rebate limit of $500 per member/customer account

Eligible for off-peak program rate (around HALF the standard rate)

Some utilities offer additional incentives on water heaters. Check with your utility on program restrictions and additional offerings.

Water heating tips
  • Set your water heater temperature at 120 degrees. For each 10-degree reduction in water temperature, you can save about 5% in energy costs.
  • Install low-flow shower heads and aerators on sink faucets. These measures save money by reducing hot water use.
  • Insulate your electric hot-water storage tank. If your water heater is located in an unconditioned space, consider installing a thermal wrap around it. Take care to install it in accordance with the tank and wrap manufacturer’s instructions.
  • Try washing clothes with warm water and rinsing with cold water.
  • Drain a quart of water from your water tank every three months to remove sediment that impedes heat transfer and lowers the efficiency of your heater.