Electric Water Heater Timer

Heating water is a process in which an energy source (electricity) is converted into heat energy, which is further used to heat water. It is a thermodynamic process where the energy is converted from one form to another, to conserve it. Appliances like kettles, copper pots, cauldrons, and water heaters all need a heating mechanism.

The temperature in these appliances can be controlled with the help of a timer. An electric water heater timer is a device that automatically switches an electric water heater on and off during particular time intervals. This mechanism is an energy saver and not very expensive.

Box Timers
Box timers are known to be the most commonly used electric timers available from 120 to 270 volts. They have either mechanical or digital timers and also built-in emergency batteries. They can be installed near storage tanks, both indoors and outdoors.

Countdown Timers
These timers come with either mechanical or digital controls, which reduce the cost by allowing you to set a duration in which the hot water is available, like from 10 to 60 minutes. They operate at 110 volts. Since they cannot be wired directly to the tank, they are mounted away from it, near the climate controls.

Digital Timers
These timers also work at 110 volts but are designed exclusively for indoor installations. They are arranged away from the storage tanks, next to the climate controls, for easier access. Since they function digitally, they have a wide variety of programmable settings compared to others. They can be set for different days of the week.

• Start by removing the electric power that supplies the electricity to the water heater.
• Place the timer in the desired area. With the help of a screwdriver, fix the terminals and the wires of the control device. Follow the instructions from the user's manual, when mounting the timer.

• Connect the wires to the timer controller. The second set of wires are to be connected to the screw terminal.
• After all the wires are connected, apply the power to the hot water circuit and check if the wires are connected properly for the circuit to pass.

• You can then set the program using 'at home' and 'away from home' settings, for the timer. You will also have to set the right date and time, as many timers allow the setting of a program every day throughout the week.

While installing your own timer, make sure you follow the instruction manual properly and also take the precautions mentioned in it.