How to Install a Timer on a Water Heater

By Shelley Frost

October 10, 2024

Stepping into a steaming hot shower makes you glad to have modern conveniences, but seeing the utility bills to heat your water can be a shock. Heating water is one of the top three uses of residential electricity at 12% of the average consumption.

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One possible solution is a water heater timer to reduce the appliance's energy consumption. Find out how to install a timer on a water heater if you want to try this option.

What Does It Mean to Put Your Water Heater on a Timer?

Traditional water heaters heat the water whether you're using it right away or not. They also have to keep the water hot until you need it. That can add up to wasted energy.

An electric water heater timer is a programmable device that lets you control when the appliance runs. You can set it to turn off your water heater when you know you won't need hot water or during peak hours when energy costs are higher. The idea is that the timer makes the appliance use less energy because it only runs when you need hot water.

Water heater timers are small external devices that can go onto almost any type of electric tank heater. You can choose between analog and digital timers. With a digital timer, you often have the option of controlling the device remotely through an app, so you can change the timing even if you're not at home.

Can I Put a Timer on My Water Heater?

While all devices are a little different, installing a water heater timer is a relatively easy task. If you're a handy homeowner and feel comfortable working with electrical wiring, you should be able to install a timer on your water heater. The key is knowing how to install a timer on a water heater safely to avoid wiring issues or personal injuries.

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How Do You Install a Timer on Your Water Heater?

First, it's important to choose a water heater timer that's compatible with your water heater. When you install a timer on your water heater, you're essentially routing the existing power cable for the water heater through the timer. This allows the device to control when the water heater runs.

Initially, the wiring runs from the top of the appliance to the electrical service panel in your home. It might have a junction box between the two. The timer goes into the wiring that connects the water heater to the service panel. Here's how to install a timer on a water heater.

Step 1: Shut Off the Power

This is an essential first step to perform the installation safely. Double- or even triple-check to verify you shut off the electricity completely to avoid an electric shock during the project.

Step 2: Attach the Timer Box to the Wall

An ideal location is close enough to the water heater for the wires to reach easily while still being readily accessible to you for programming. Mount the timer according to the product instructions. Use a level to ensure you install the timer precisely, as proper installation helps the timer work correctly.

Step 3: Access the Water Heater Power Cable

To do this, you may need to remove the plate or cover on the water heater terminal box where the wiring enters the appliance. Disconnect the wires.

Step 4: Reconnect the Wires

The wire you disconnect from the water heater goes through the timer case and connects to the timer. Then, you'll use a new section of wire that you buy at the store. It connects with the timer and then runs to the water heater, where the old wire is connected. Connect this wire on both ends.

Step 5: Replace the Cover

Once you have everything connected, replace the water heater terminal box cover. You may also need to screw the timer into the case on the wall.

Step 6: Turn on the Power

This allows the timer and water heater to run once again.

Step 7: Program the Timer

Decide when you want the water heater to run and program the timer accordingly. For instance, you might program it to shut off after you leave in the morning and stay off all day while you're at work. Set it to turn back on at least 30 minutes before you know you'll need hot water. This gives the appliance plenty of time to heat up the water so it's ready.

Installation Notes

The product you buy should come with instructions on that specific model. It might require specific steps or installation methods for the timer to work properly. Follow the included instructions carefully. If you don't feel comfortable handling the work yourself, hire an electrician to install the timer.

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