Have you noticed your water bill is higher than usual lately? Are you wondering if your water heater could be the culprit for the sudden increase? You’re not alone. Many homeowners notice this trend and wonder if their old, leaky, or inefficient water heater is to blame.

This blog post will explore why your water bill might be higher than expected and how a faulty water heater may be the cause. We’ll also provide some tips on how to prevent these problems from happening in the future. So now, let’s dig in and see how a bad water heater can impact your water bill.

How a Faulty Water Heater Can Make My Water Bill Go Up

There are a few reasons why having a bad water heater could cause a spike in your water consumption. Here’s a look at some of the most common causes:

Leaks

Water leaks are one of the most common reasons for high water usage. If your water heater leaks, the problem is likely with the tank itself and not the actual heating element.

However, if the leak comes from the pipes or fittings attached to the water heater, it could use more electricity than necessary. So, it’s essential to have the leak fixed as soon as possible to avoid further damage and higher water bills.

Old and Inefficient Equipment

If your water heater is more than ten years old, it’s likely not as efficient as newer models. That means it will use more energy to heat the same amount of water, leading to higher energy bills. If your tank is showing its age, it may be time to consider replacing it with a new, more efficient model.

Poor Insulation

Suppose your water heater is not insulated correctly. In that case, it will have to work harder to maintain the water at the desired temperature. That can lead to increased energy consumption and higher electricity bills.

In addition, poor insulation can also cause the tank to overheat, leading to risks like tank rupture or fire.

Improperly-Sized

If your water heater is too big for your home, it will heat more water than what’s required, thus leading to higher energy bills. Water heater size is measured in gallons, and you should choose a unit appropriate for your home and family size.

Sediment Clogs in Your Water Heater

If there is sediment build-up in your water heater, it will have to work harder to heat the water. That can lead to increased energy consumption and shorten the lifespan of your water heater. In addition, sediment can cause the water heater to overheat, leading to severe problems like tank rupture or fire.

Do You Live in the Chicago Area and Need to Pay Your Utility Bill?

Now that you know how a bad water heater can lead to a higher water bill, it’s crucial to be proactive and prevent these problems from happening in the first place.

If you live in the Chicago area and need to pay your water bill, West Suburban Currency Exchanges can help. We have locations throughout the city, so finding one near you is convenient.

We also offer various other services, such as check cashing, money orders, foreign exchange, notary service, vehicle licenses, license plate renewals, and more! Visit one of our locations today to see how we can help you. Thank you for choosing West Suburban Currency Exchanges!