When you think about summer energy-saving tips, your mind probably jumps to your air conditioner, thermostat, or ceiling fans. But did you know your water heater could be driving up your energy bill—even during the hot South Carolina summer?
At At Your Service Plumbing and Drain Cleaning, we help homeowners throughout Murrells Inlet, Myrtle Beach, Surfside Beach, and the surrounding coastal areas save money, extend appliance lifespan, and reduce water waste—starting with your water heater.
While hot showers may feel less essential in the summer heat, your water heater still works every day to provide hot water for cooking, cleaning, laundry, and more. And if it’s running inefficiently, it could be costing you big time.
This guide will cover smart ways to care for your water heater in summer, lower your utility bills, and prevent emergency service calls when temperatures rise.
Why Summer Is the Perfect Time to Check Your Water Heater
It might seem counterintuitive, but summer is actually an ideal time to perform water heater maintenance. Here’s why:
You’re likely using less hot water, especially for showers
The warmer weather reduces demand on your heater, making it easier to assess performance
Any inefficiencies are more noticeable when usage dips
It’s a good time to prep your unit for the heavier use months ahead (like fall and winter)
Summer heat can add stress to units in garages or outdoor closets, especially in South Carolina’s humid climate
How Much Energy Does Your Water Heater Use?
Water heaters account for about 18% of your home’s total energy use, according to the U.S. Department of Energy. That makes them the second-largest energy consumer in the average home—second only to HVAC systems.
If your water heater is outdated, under-maintained, or working harder than necessary, your energy bills will reflect it.
Let’s fix that.
8 Summer Water Heater Tips to Save Energy and Extend the Life of Your System
✅ 1. Lower the Temperature
Most water heaters are set to 140°F by default, which is hotter than most households need and can increase the risk of scalding.
For most homes, 120°F is a safe, energy-efficient setting. Lowering your water heater temperature:
Reduces energy use by 4–5% for every 10°F drop
Helps prevent mineral buildup
Is better for children and elderly family members
Keeps your plumbing system under less stress
It’s a simple change that can save you up to $60 per year, and your showers will still feel comfortably warm.
✅ 2. Turn Down or Off When Traveling
If you’re heading out of town for vacation—or if your home is a seasonal rental—turn your water heater to “vacation mode” or off entirely. There’s no reason to keep heating water you aren’t using.
Some newer models even have smart features that allow you to control settings from your phone.
Just remember to turn it back on a few hours before you return so the water has time to heat up.
✅ 3. Insulate the Tank and Pipes
Water heater tanks and the first 3–6 feet of hot water pipes lose heat quickly—especially in garages, attics, or crawl spaces, which are common locations in coastal homes.
Adding insulation jackets or pipe sleeves can help:
Maintain water temperature longer
Reduce energy waste
Lighten the load on your heater, especially during hot days
This is particularly important in Murrells Inlet and Myrtle Beach, where high humidity and salt air can affect both temperature and metal surfaces.
✅ 4. Flush the Tank Annually
Sediment buildup from minerals in your water supply can reduce your water heater’s efficiency and lifespan. This sediment settles at the bottom of the tank, forcing your heater to work harder to heat the water.
Flushing the tank once per year removes this debris and helps:
Maintain consistent water temperature
Reduce popping or rumbling noises
Prevent corrosion and early failure
If you’re not comfortable doing this yourself, At Your Service Plumbing offers quick, affordable water heater maintenance throughout the Grand Strand.
✅ 5. Check the Anode Rod
The anode rod is a small but important part of your water heater that prevents rust inside the tank. It attracts corrosive elements and protects the steel lining.
If it’s completely worn out, your tank could start rusting from the inside—leading to leaks or system failure.
You should have the anode rod inspected every 3–5 years, or sooner if you have hard water.
✅ 6. Repair or Replace Leaky Faucets
Leaky faucets, especially hot water taps, force your water heater to keep working even when you’re not using hot water. This means unnecessary energy consumption all day long.
Fixing a single leaky faucet can save up to 3,000 gallons of water per year and significantly reduce your energy use.
If you’ve got constant drips or slow leaks, we can repair or replace those fixtures with more efficient models.
✅ 7. Upgrade to a More Efficient Model
Is your water heater more than 10 years old? If so, it’s probably using more energy than necessary and could be nearing the end of its life.
New models—including Energy Star-certified and tankless systems—are significantly more efficient. They heat water only when you need it, reduce standby heat loss, and often qualify for energy rebates or tax credits.
We’ll help you choose the best system based on your family size, usage habits, and home layout.
✅ 8. Schedule a Summer Inspection
A professional plumbing inspection is the best way to ensure your water heater—and entire plumbing system—is running efficiently and safely. During summer, our team can:
Check the thermostat and heating elements
Test pressure relief valves
Flush the tank
Inspect for signs of rust or corrosion
Recommend any necessary upgrades or repairs
Don’t wait for cold showers or sky-high bills—get ahead of issues before fall and winter roll in.
Pro Tip: Consider a Tankless Water Heater for Coastal Homes
Tankless water heaters are becoming increasingly popular in coastal areas like Murrells Inlet and Myrtle Beach. Why?
They’re smaller and easier to install in tight spaces
They use up to 34% less energy than storage tank models
They provide endless hot water on demand
They’re less susceptible to salt air corrosion
They typically last longer—up to 20 years with proper care
Thinking of making the switch? At Your Service Plumbing can walk you through the pros and cons and install the right tankless system for your home.
Water Heater Problems? We’re At Your Service.
Don’t let an inefficient or neglected water heater drain your summer energy savings. Whether you need a quick tune-up, a full inspection, or a new water heater installation, we’re here to help.
At At Your Service Plumbing and Drain Cleaning, we proudly serve Murrells Inlet, Myrtle Beach, Garden City, Surfside Beach, and surrounding communities with fast, honest, and reliable plumbing service—including 24/7 emergency support.
📞 Call us at 843.380.8556
🌐 Schedule online at atyourserviceplumbingmb.com
🔧 Ask us about energy-efficient water heater upgrades!
