New products are available in less than two months water heaterEnergy efficiency standards will go into effect. This could mean homeowners are hit with an unexpected and costly expense.
The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) has issued regulations. To understand them, homeowners must first understand why they are being imposed. According to the DOE, replacing residential water heaters, pool heaters, and direct heating equipment will help consumers save as much as $10 billion over the next 30 years and reduce the emission of up to 163 million tons of carbon dioxide.
“These energy-conserving appliance standards are a critical part of the Administration’s overall efforts to save energy in homes and businesses nationwide,”Steven Chu, former DOE Secretary. “By raising the energy efficiency requirements of our every-day appliances, we will save money for American families and companies, reduce carbon pollu-tion, and enhance our energy security for decades to come.”
Although everyone agrees that going green is good for the environment, there are downsides.
“Our customers could face price increases of up to 15 percent to 35 percent,”Mary Kennedy Thompson, President of Mr. Rooter Plumbing. “Not only will the cost of water heaters increase an average of $120, but installation and maintenance costs will likely rise as well. As a result of new regulations that require a more complicated installation and increased amount of system parts necessary, homeowners could face a hefty replacement fee in the short run.”
Thompson states that there is an additional cost due to the larger water heater units. For electric hot water heaters with a capacity greater than 55 gallons (the minimum required for residential homes), you will need a minimum 128 cu. To meet the new standards, you will need a duct to connect to an area larger than 4,000 square feet. This will mean homeowners will be required to replace their water heaters and possibly undergo major renovations.
Homeowners should check the age of hot water heaters to avoid a costly situation. They can be replaced if they reach the 10-year mark.
Visit this site to learn more about the best plan for your house. www.MrRooter.com.
