AC-83-01-3 -- Electric Water Heater Energy Retrofits-Safety and Energy Savings PDF

Investigations of the relative energy savings associated with a number of water heater presented. These include water heater insulation wrap, pipe conservation measures are insulation, and three anticonvection devices for control of pipe losses. In addition, potential service-wiring overheating problems resulting from external tank insulation are examined.

Estimates of the absolute and relative savings of each conservation measure are presented. The effect of partial wrapping due to close clearances is examined. Two anticonvection valve designs are compared with the use of a simple piping loop for control of heat loss through connected piping.

Variables affecting service-wire temperature are examined and their sensitivities evaluated. Variables examined include: water temperature, ambient temperature, the use of in the insulation wrap, service-wire conductor size, severity of service cycle, and cutouts heating element size.