Lower your demand with a water heater timer

Did you know your water heater accounts for 12%-18% of your household’s energy bill? That’s because it constantly heats up water, even when not in use. A water heater timer can help lower your energy demand by allowing you to program the appliance to only work during certain periods of the day. Here’s how:

• Choose a water heater timer that is compatible with your water heater’s voltage. There are many different types available — from simple box timers to programmable Wi-Fi timers and more.

• Program the timer to shut the water heater off during the times of the day when your family won’t be using hot water — during work hours, late at night or when you’re away on vacation.

• Turn off the water heater during peak hours — 3-6 p.m. during summer and 6-9 a.m. in winter — to lower energy demand, which could result in savings on your monthly bill.

Want more energy-saving tips for water heaters? Visit wiregrass.coop/energyconservation/energy-savers/waterheating.