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If you have a tank-type electric water heater, it runs regularly to keep the water at the desired temperature. If you live in a home where you don’t use much hot water, it could seem wasteful to run power to heat water that you’re using infrequently. You could save some power by using a smaller tank, insulating the tank, or lowering the temperature of the water heater.

Aluminum wiring can pose a significant fire risk because it tends to expand, contract, and overheat, leading to failing connections and splices. If your home has aluminum wiring, it doesn't always require a complete replacement, but you must take safety precautions. The first step is to hire a licensed electrician to conduct a thorough inspection. Based on their findings, you have several options:

• Full Replacement: The safest but most expensive solution is to replace all aluminum wiring with copper.

• Copper Pigtailing: A more budget-friendly option, suitable for certain homes, involves adding a short section of copper wire to the end of each aluminum wire at connection points.

• Other Safety Upgrades: Your electrician may also recommend installing aluminum-compatible outlets and applying an anti-oxidant paste to connections to prevent corrosion.

Consulting a professional will help you determine the best course of action to ensure your home's wiring meets current safety standards.

Upgrading your electrical system can save you money on your monthly utility bills by powering your home more efficiently. Electrification nonprofit Rewiring America estimates that a household could save $1,800 per year on energy bills by upgrading to a modern electric heat pump, switching to a heat pump for their water, installing solar panels on the roof, and converting to an electric vehicle.

You will need a permit for any electrical work that involves installing or replacing wiring, moving or installing new fixtures, switches, or outlets, hardwiring appliances or HVAC equipment, installing subpanels, and upgrading electrical service. You typically don’t need a permit to have an electrician replace an existing light fixture or electrical box. You can always call your local building department to see if your project needs a permit, but a professional electrician will be able to tell you. In most cases, your professional will pull the permits for you.