Obviously, your water heater works hard to give you hot showers and hot water for clean dishes. Aside from that, you may treat the appliance as a hidden worker that you always avoid. Of course, you should NEVER keep combustible or flammable materials near your water heater. However, there are some nifty safe ways you can make use of the warm area. It’s much better, and more sustainable, to make use of that heat rather than letting it evaporate as wasted energy.
Create a Laundry Folding Station
If your water heater is in the laundry room, you have the perfect excuse to create a dedicated folding area. You’re probably among the vast majority of people who do not like to fold laundry. You can make the experience a little more enjoyable by doing it in a warm, cozy area. Adding a countertop or simple folding tables near the water heater can help transform the space into a more functional laundry area. Most importantly, the heat from the appliance can actually help clothes to dry faster.
Ensure Your Pet Has a Safe, Comfortable Spot
Pets relish the opportunity to veg out in cozy, warm space. That makes the space near the water heater prime real estate for nap time if yours is in a furnished basement room. Just make sure your pet does not lean directly up against the appliance. While naturally warm, some water heaters can cause burns if you lean on them for too long. The best way to preserve this cozy corner safely is to put a small fence or barrier around the heater. They can be close enough to enjoy the heat but not so close that they might get hurt.
Make Getting Seasonal Storage More Pleasant
Nobody enjoys digging through holiday decorations in a cold garage or basement. The area around a water heater often feels slightly warmer from residual heat, so you can easily get rid of the annoying chill. Organizing seasonal stuff nearby makes those trips more pleasant. You might find it easier to sort decorations and unpack storage containers when you’re not shivering the entire time.
Create a Household Command Center
A bulletin board, a family calendar, or an organizational system can turn the space into a household command center. Since you’ll already spend time there doing chores and checking supplies, adding a little organization can give you more value from the space. The warmth from the water heater can make the room feel more like an extension of your living space.
Make a Home for Indoor Plants
Some indoor plants need stable temperatures and protection from cold drafts. Others will benefit from warmer temperatures, and being near your water heater may create a slightly warmer environment that your plants enjoy. Don’t place the plants close enough to interfere with ventilation or maintenance. However, a thoughtfully placed shelf nearby can add life and color to the space.
Get More From What You Already Have
Yes, the most important task of a water heater is to provide hot water. But if you already have an appliance that’s emitting heat, you might as well make double use of that energy. Will you notice that extra efficiency in your monthly savings account? Probably very little. Nevertheless, there’s a lot of personal satisfaction that comes from making the most of what you already have. If you live in Sioux Falls, SD or a surrounding area and need water heater services, make your first call to Sioux Falls Plumbing.
