New Water Heater Rules Bring Lower Energy Bills
(The Associated Press) - Apr 10
Water heaters are in the spotlight this month as manufacturers
respond to updated federal regulations with better insulation and more
efficient technologies. While changes to efficiency minimums may seem
minor, the impacts for certain customers may be significant. Some
homeowners will find their old water heaters aren't as easy to replace
as they used to be. Updated minimum energy efficiency levels for
residential water heaters take effect in April 2015. "By raising the
bar, customers will benefit from units that waste less energy and cost
less to operate over time, a meaningful benefit when water heating
accounts for one-fifth of household energy costs and hundreds of dollars
each year," says George M. Chapman of the Coalition for ENERGY STAR@
Water Heaters. Water heater manufacturers are responding by updating
their product lines, and in some cases, discontinuing certain models.
These updated products may mean that a water heater replacement is no
longer a simple swap out.
One major challenge is tight spaces. Storage water heaters with more
insulation are wider and taller, and may not fit through narrow doors or
into small closets. Customers have a number of options, such as choosing
a smaller tank size or a narrower model. Changing the installation
location is a more drastic option. "While most customers will find their
new water heater fits fine in the existing space, a water heater
replacement is a perfect time to discuss the best, most efficient option
for your family with your plumbing professional," notes Chapman.
A second significant impact affects water heaters that store more
than 55 gallons. Electric models will now include heat pumps, resulting
in several additional installation considerations. Heat pump models are
taller, often 5-7 feet, require sufficient space around them to function
optimally, and use drain lines to dispose of condensate. Many gas models
over 55 gallons use condensing technology that similarly requires
condensate drain lines and corrosion resistant venting. These models
typically require access to a power source as well. Most tankless water
heaters meet the new standards already and will see few changes.
Consumers have options across a range of styles and efficiency
levels. ENERGY STAR, a voluntary program that recognizes energy
efficient water heaters made by more than two dozen manufacturers, has
updated its criteria too. A plumber can identify which model is best for
a home's layout and hot water needs. Customers will find new options
when it comes time for a water heater. "The choice a customer makes
regarding a replacement water heater can be made in a minute, but the
impacts of that decision on a utility bill can last well over a decade,"
says Chapman. The updated efficiency regulations will help ensure
customers get the most out of their water heater for whichever model
they choose. More information about the updated water heater regulations
is available online at
www.eswaterheaters.com.
To view the original version on PR Newswire,
visit:http://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/new-water-heater-rules-bring-lower-energy-bills-300064144.html
SOURCE Coalition for ENERGY STAR@ Water Heaters
-0- 04/10/2015
/CONTACT: George M. Chapman, Coalition for ENERGY STAR Water Heaters,
gchapman@cee1.org, (617) 337-9262
/Web Site: http://www.eswaterheaters.com
CO: Coalition for ENERGY STAR@ Water Heaters
ST: Massachusetts
IN: UTI WUT OIL HOU HVA
SU: PDT
PRN
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