Did you know water heaters are the second highest source of energy usage in the home? That means they’re the second most expensive monthly energy cost. Not only can electric water heaters help reduce those expenses, but they also have many other benefits.
1. Cost Savings
When purchasing a new water heater, electric water heaters are less expensive than their gas counterparts of the same size. They are also less expensive to install, as they only require adding in a specialized outlet rather than a large flu for ventilation. Save even more money every month by installing an ENERGY STAR certified water heater as they use even less energy than standard models, saving homeowners money on their utility bills while helping protect the environment.
2. Load Management
Having an electric water heater is one way to be eligible to enroll in your local Touchstone Energy® Cooperative’s load management program. This program controls the amount of electricity being used during times of peak energy demand. This lowers wholesale power costs for your Touchstone Energy® Cooperative and the savings are passed on to you. Aside from being financially friendly, load management is also environmentally friendly due to reduced energy usage. The load management program has saved members in our region more than $260 million since it launched in 1985.
3. Rebates
When you purchase an electric water heater and enroll it in your co-op’s load management program, you may qualify for a rebate.
4. Efficiency
Because electric water heaters don’t require ventilation, they are more efficient than gas heaters. Gas water heaters lose a portion of the heat they produce through the vent system. Less lost heat means an electric water heater doesn’t have to work as hard as a gas equivalent.
5. Safety
Electric water heaters are significantly safer than gas water heaters which can cause gas leaks and explosions. Gas water heaters also have a higher risk of emitting carbon dioxide into your home. Because electric water heaters don’t use pilot lights, your risk of injury from reigniting the flame is also eliminated.
To learn more about the benefits of going electric or to enroll in the load management program, contact your local Touchstone Energy® Cooperative or visit yourcooppower.com today.