According to the U.S. Department of Energy,
water heating accounts for an average of 14 to 25 percent of the energy usage in
most homes. You can reduce your energy usage and utility bills by implementing
some energy-saving water heating strategies. The U.S. Department of Energy
recommends installing a hot water heater timer to save energy and money.
Hot Water Heater Timer Savings
A hot water heater timer turns off your electric hot water heater automatically
when you go to work or bed, and then turns it back on right before you come home
from work or get up in the morning. Because water is not heated unnecessarily
when it's not needed or being used, you receive water heater savings from using
a hot water timer. A hot water timer is simple to set up, and most homeowners
can install them by themselves.
A water heater timer can be programmed to a five-day work week schedule, weekend
schedule, or any single day schedule. Multiple on/off periods can be scheduled
per day as well. Most timers are equipped with an external override, which
enables you to override the timer program without having to open the cover.
Peak Demand Water Heater Savings
A hot water heater timer is
especially useful if your utility company gives perks, discounts, or incentives
for off-peak times. Therefore, in combination with installing a timer, contact
your utility company to see if it offers a customer demand for utilities
program. For instance, your utility company may impose higher rates during
"high-peak" times and discounted rates during "off-peak" times. Some utility
companies even offer incentives to install devices that turn off electric water
heaters during high demand periods. If your utility company does this, you stand
to save even more money by programming your hot water timer to shut off during
the high peak times. Keep in mind that utility turn-off time periods are
typically quite brief, so there is no lengthy inconvenience.
1.888.845.6597
