Why Your ‘Perfectly Working’ Water Heater Might Be Inflating Your Energy Bills

Many homeowners believe that if their water heater provides hot water, it’s working perfectly fine. The truth is, a water heater can appear to be operating without issue while still quietly increasing your energy costs. Price Busters Plumbing & Sewer, the go-to local team for water heater repair in Edmonds, WA, highlights how your water heater becomes a drain on your wallet, even when it seems okay.

How a Working Water Heater Can Waste Energy

Even if your water heater delivers hot water without issue, it may still be consuming more power than necessary. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, water heating accounts for about 18% of the average household’s energy use. Sediment buildup at the bottom of the tank is one of the most common culprits. This buildup forces the unit to use more energy to heat the same amount of water. Additionally, aging components such as heating elements and thermostats may continue to function but operate at reduced efficiency.

The Role of Temperature Settings and Insulation

Many homeowners unknowingly keep their water heater set too high. A setting of 120°F is generally sufficient for most households, yet many systems are left at 140°F or higher. That difference means more frequent heating cycles and higher monthly bills. Poor insulation around the tank or pipes can also allow heat to escape, causing the system to run longer than necessary. These inefficiencies can go unnoticed until professional water heater services evaluate the system.

Why Age Matters Even If the Unit Still Works

A water heater typically lasts between 8 and 12 years. Once it reaches this range, efficiency declines, even when it continues to produce hot water. Corrosion, scale buildup, and worn components all contribute to higher energy demand. At this stage, households may begin considering a water heater replacement as a cost-effective decision, not only to restore reliability but also to reduce long-term utility expenses.

Tankless Water Heater as an Efficient Option

One solution that many homeowners are considering is a tankless water heater. Unlike traditional storage models, these units heat water only when it is needed. According to Energy.gov, tankless systems can be 24% to 34% more energy-efficient in homes that use less than 41 gallons of hot water daily. While the upfront investment can be higher, the long-term energy savings often make it worthwhile.

Professional Water Heater Installation and Services

Efficiency gains depend on proper sizing and setup. Even the most advanced unit will underperform if it is incorrectly installed. Professional water heater installation ensures that the system matches the household’s hot water demand. Ongoing care, including flushing the tank and inspecting critical components, is equally important. Regular water heater services help keep energy use predictable and prevent small issues from escalating into expensive repairs.

A water heater that appears to run normally may still be adding unnecessary costs to your household budget. Having it evaluated by a qualified plumber is often the best way to confirm whether it is operating efficiently or nearing the end of its service life. Price Busters Plumbing & Sewer has been providing quality solutions since 2014. Our team offers trusted guidance on repair, maintenance, and replacement, so your system performs as it should. Call us today to schedule an appointment.