Saving Energy

Whether your next tankless water heater is powered by natural gas or electricity is something that will be decided in the next few years. The blueprint for the future is scheduled to happen as soon as Congress can get around to it and it will determine priorities and which projects get the funding.

In the mix of lobbyists are nonprofits that are carrying the flag for clean electricity. As it currently stands only 10 percent the electricity produced in the US comes from clean energy. Those that talk about clean natural gas are thinking short term - the shrinking supply of easy to reac deposits and carbon footprint can’t be ignored forever.

One of the big parts of a comprehensive energy bill will have to cutting waste. In addition to new and cleaner energy there will need to be a conservation plan. It makes sense environmentally and history shows it makes sense economically to use energy efficiently.

When steam ships first put to sea they were so greedy for fuel that they couldn’t turn a profit without government subsidies. No one was concerned about mighty engines belching black smoke, what was important was to find an engine efficient to turn a profit; it was only then that iron ships replaced clipper ships on the high seas.

Today we have Energy Star ratings to help us make good choices. These improvements in efficiency and performance come from government fiat and industry’s volunteer efforts.

Tankless hot water heaters are one of these efforts. Some models have very high efficiency ratings and offer advantages over traditional water heaters including the impact of heat loss, on-demand energy use and longer life cycle.

At least one brand has a LEEDS rating to add to its list of selling points. So any effort you, the homeowner can contribute, will play a role. Take the time to learn more, it can save you money and help promote better energy efficiency.