(NC)—A new water heater may not be at the top of your shopping list, but when the time comes to replace an existing unit, you’ll need to act quickly. The good news is that domestic water heaters are now included in the ENERGY STAR initiative in Canada, and that should make your shopping experience both easier and more rewarding.

ENERGY STAR is the international symbol for energy efficiency, used by consumers to select household products that will save them money and reduce energy-related greenhouse gas emissions that have been linked to climate change. Water heaters are one of the biggest energy consumers in the home, second only to space heating equipment. Although it may be tucked away in a corner of the basement, your water heater is used every day, so it pays to select an energy-efficient model.

Water heaters that qualify for the ENERGY STAR symbol use at least five percent less energy than conventional models – and that means your utility bills will be at least five percent lower than might otherwise be the case. Features such as better tank insulation, heat traps and more efficient burners set ENERGY STAR qualified models apart from the competition.

The new ENERGY STAR specification applies to gas, heat pump and solar water heaters (electric and oil-fired models are not included in the program). In addition to meeting strict energy efficiency requirements, ENERGY STAR qualified water heaters must offer warranties ranging from six to 10 years on most parts, depending on the type of unit.

When shopping for a new water heater, make sure to look for the ENERGY STAR symbol on the product, its packaging or literature. More information is available at energystar.nrcan.gc.ca or by calling 1-800-OCANADA.