5 Benefits of Water Heater Timers

By Sandy Hess

September 26, 2024

Instant hot water is a modern-day convenience most families don’t want to go without. That doesn’t necessarily mean your water heater must run 24 hours a day. For instance, when everyone is at work or school, you’re not even using water, but your water heater is still working. You can minimize this wasted energy use and reduce your energy costs by installing a water heater timer.

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How Does a Water Heater Timer Work?

A water heater timer is a small device that attaches to your water heater and allows you to regulate its operations. The goal is to have the heater shut off during times when no one is using it and turn back on in enough time to provide hot water for your family. Using a timer eliminates the need to heat water when no one is home or everyone is sleeping.

There are several types of water heater timers, including:

Switch Timer

This type of heater requires you to flip the water heater timer switch when you want to turn it on or off. This requires more planning, and you must be home to turn the water heater on or switch it off physically.

Programmable Timer

With a programmable timer, you can set specific times for your water heater to turn on and off. Once the settings are in place, the water heater will automatically come on or shut off as scheduled, whether you’re home or not.

Smart Timer

Smart timers offer the highest level of convenience. A mobile app lets you easily set or modify the settings on your water heater, allowing you to manage its operations right from your phone.

What Are the Benefits of Putting Your Water Heater on a Timer?

There are a number of advantages of installing a water heater timer, including:

Reduce energy costs.
Water heater timers can help lower your energy costs by reducing the amount of time the heater operates throughout the day.
Extend the life of the water heater
. Because your water heater will not run 24-7, installing a timer can slow down any wear and tear on the appliance and extend its lifespan.
Limit carbon footprint.
Gas and electric water heaters contribute to greenhouse gases that disrupt our environment. Reducing the amount of energy your heater consumes also reduces your carbon footprint.
Low initial costs.
Water heater timers are relatively inexpensive to purchase and maintain. Even a small reduction in your energy bills can provide an excellent return on your investment.
Customizable.
Water heater timers, especially programmable and smart timers, give you total control to choose when to turn your heater on and off. This customization allows you to pick times that are best for you.

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Are There Disadvantages?

While there are a number of great benefits to installing a hot water heater timer, there are also a few disadvantages you should consider. First, if you have an older water heater, you may not be able to find a timer that works with your model. Always, be sure to check the model, make and voltage of your water heater when shopping for a compatible timer.

You may also run into trouble when trying to install a water heater timer. Typically, these devices are fairly easy to install, but they do sometimes require electrical work that could increase costs.

Finally, using a water heater timer means you won’t have 24-7 access to hot water. For example, if you have a day off work, you may not have access to hot water unless you change the settings on your heater. In this case, you’ll have to wait 30 to 45 minutes for the water to heat up again.

Can You Save Money by Putting Your Water Heater on a Timer?

According to the U.S. Department of Energy, water heaters account for up to 18% of home energy costs. That’s a lot of energy, especially when you consider that you don’t even use hot water when you’re away from home or sleeping.

Using a gas or electric water heater timer reduces the amount of time your water heater runs throughout the day. This, in turn, can reduce your energy consumption and lower your energy bills.

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