Friday, August 13, 2010

Is an old heater a bad heater?

Ask Ida

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Dear Ida B. Green,

I want to take advantage of this year's energy tax credit and I'm wondering if I should be looking at a new water heater.

Signed,

Heater's Too Old

Dear H2O,

Taking advantage of this 30 percent tax credit makes a lot of sense, but if you want it to reward you with energy-saving cents (and dollars), it's wise to consider which qualifying energy improvement(s) will pay off for your home specifically.*

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Consider replacing your old heater if:

- There are signs of leaks around fittings (sediments, rust or rust spots).

- The anode rod has lost most of its "sacrificial metal."

Consider a more economical fix if:

- The outside of the tank feels warm to the touch. (Wrap it in an insulation blanket.)

- Not enough hot water. (Some of your hot water storage space may be taken up by sediment in the tank. Flush the tank every six to 12 months.)

- The water isn't hot enough when it gets to one or more of your faucets. (Insulate the pipes leading to lukewarm faucets with easy-to-fit pipe insulators.)

Although there's no tax incentive, increased water conservation may offer you the best payback. Begin by cutting back on long, day-dreamy showers, turn off faucets when there's nothing under them, and use modern, cold-water detergent for more cold-water laundry loads.

*See www.energystar.gov for qualifying energy improvements.

Keep it Green,

Ida

—Elizabeth Jeffrey

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