High Efficiency Gas Water Heaters
High-efficiency gas water heaters have several features that reduce the cost of heating water. First, the tank walls have higher levels of foam insulation. Secondly, instead of having a standing pilot light, a high-efficiency model utilizes an intermittent-ignition to reduce the time that the pilot light burns. The intermittent-ignition device provides a spark to ignite the pilot flame only when needed. Finally, heat exchanger efficiencies are improved, allowing heat from the gas burner to more efficiently and completely heat the water in the tank.
What To Look For
Efficiencies of water heaters are expressed by a number called an Energy Factor. Units with an Energy Factor of .60 or higher are considered energy efficient.
Insulating Pipes
Hot water pipes should be insulated in unheated areas, using a foil-faced fiberglass insulation or foam insulation sleeves. It is recommended that the first 2 metres (six feet) of both cold and hot water pipes from the tank be insulated, even in heated areas. The fiberglass can be installed in strips tied to the pipe with wire or tape every 15 to 20 cm (six to eight inches), foil facing out. The foam simply slips onto the pipe through a slit in the sleeve; the slit is then sealed with tape. The foam is recommended, as it is more effective and much easier to install.
