As the seasons change, so do your water heating needs—especially in the unique climate of the Arizona desert. Whether you’re enduring the scorching summer heat in Mesa or the milder but still intense sun in San Tan Valley and Queen Creek, optimizing your water heater settings can not only improve your comfort but also save on your energy bills. Here’s how to seasonally adjust your water heater to suit the desert climate.

Understanding Your Water Heater

Before diving into seasonal adjustments, it’s essential to understand the type of water heater you have. The most common types in Arizona homes are:

• Storage Tank Water Heaters: These are equipped with an insulated tank where water is heated and stored until needed.
• Tankless Water Heaters: These heat water directly without the use of a storage tank, which can be more energy-efficient.

Summer Adjustments

The Arizona desert is notorious for its high summer temperatures, making your cooling systems work overtime. Here’s how you can adjust your water heater during these months:

• Lower the Temperature: In summer, lower the water heater’s temperature to around 120°F. This helps reduce the energy used to keep the water hot, as the incoming water temperature is already higher due to the warm weather.
• Insulate Your Water Heater: If you haven’t already, insulating your water heater can prevent heat loss, ensuring that your system doesn’t overwork itself.

Winter Adjustments

Even though Arizona winters are not harsh, the nights can get quite cold, especially in areas like Queen Creek and the outskirts of Mesa.

• Check the Temperature Setting: While 120°F is ideal for summer, in winter, you might want to bump it up slightly to maintain comfort. However, keeping it below 140°F is advisable to avoid scalding risks and save energy.
• Insulate Exposed Pipes: Insulating pipes, especially those that run through unheated spaces, can help maintain the water temperature as it travels from your heater to your faucets.

Year-Round Tips

• Regular Maintenance: Ensure your water heater is serviced regularly to keep it running efficiently. This is crucial in the desert, where hard water is common and can lead to sediment buildup in your system.
• Consider a Timer: For those using storage tank water heaters, installing a timer can allow you to turn off the heater during hours when hot water isn’t needed, such as during the night.

Conclusion

Adjusting your water heater according to the season is a simple yet effective way to enhance comfort and cut down on unnecessary energy consumption in Mesa, San Tan Valley, and Queen Creek, Arizona. Remember, these small adjustments not only contribute to your home’s efficiency but also extend the life of your water heater.

​

WDT – We Do That Plumbing

Quality plumbing services for residential properties.

Licensed | Bonded | Insured : ROC# 346166

Mesa, Queen Creek, Chandler, Apache Junction, San Tan Valley, and Florence.