Energy Conservation and your Classic Home: Hot Water Heater Timer

Do you own a classic home?

Are your utility bills higher than you want?

The answers to both questions do not need to be yes to take advantage of this energy conservation tip.

Turn your hot water heater off when you are not using it.

Did you know that your hot water tank works all of the time? As the water in the tank cools the heater element kicks back on to raise the water temperature to the temperature that the tank is set to keep the water heated to. Why are you heating water if you’re not going to be using it?

For example lets say your household is all done with showers and dishes in the morning. Everyone is off at work or school. Why not turn off the hot water tank and then turn it back on before you need the water hot in the evening?

Another example is turn off the hot water tank at night while everyone is sleeping. Turn it back on before everyone gets up in the morning.

I know you’re saying great just what I need is another thing to remember to turn off and on all of the time. Why would I do that?

Good news! you don’t have to remember to turn the hot water on and off. You can purchase and install a water heater timer. There are a number of timers available on the market and you can find one for under $75.00 This is most likely a job for an electrician. This is not a money saving tip that will pay for itself in a year but it will be a one time money saving install.

For an example you can see more information about the Intermatic EH10-120 Volt Electric Water Heater Timer by following this link to Amazon.  The timer has 6 on off cycles daily for up to 42 weekly cycles. Set the times you are not going to be home and the timer will do the work. The Intermatic EH10-120 is priced less than $63.00 on Amazon as of 8/3/12.

Our older Classic Homes have systems and features that modern homes are lacking. Part of the charm in owning a Classic Home is learning about the home and what you can do enjoy it for a long time. When you’re ready to look for a Classic Home in Tacoma We’re here to help. Give us a call  (253) 236-3544 and we will set up a time to meet and talk about working together to buy your home in Tacoma.