How Much Do Water Heater Timers Cost?

Long, hot showers are one of life’s great luxuries. Unfortunately, they can also increase your energy bills. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, heating water can add up to about 18% of your household energy bill, making it one of the largest energy expenditures in your home. One way to cut costs is a water heater timer. The cost to install a water heater timer is nominal, and it may save you money over time.

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Can You Add a Timer to a Water Heater?

You can add a timer to most residential electric or gas water heaters, letting you heat water only when you want to. Generic 120-volt appliance timers typically work with units that plug into standard 120-volt wall outlets. However, if you have a 220-volt water heater or one that doesn’t plug directly into an outlet, you’ll need to purchase a dedicated water heater timer. Devices for gas heaters use a different mechanism, typically fitting over the unit’s control valve.

How Much Does a Water Heater Timer Cost?

At the low end, a basic 120-volt plug-in appliance timer can cost you less than $10 (CAD 14). Advanced units that offer day-by-day programming options may run as much as several hundred dollars.

Dedicated water heater timers vary widely in price, with simple units coming in at about $11 (CAD 15) on Amazon. Units with advanced functionality, such as voice or app control, battery backup and day-by-day programming, can cost upwards of $100 (CAD 135). Gas water heater timers may be harder to find, but you can typically order one online for about $90 (CAD 122) plus shipping.

Some utility companies provide complementary water heater timers to customers through energy conservation initiatives, so you may want to check with your local energy provider to see if it offers this type of program.

How Much Does It Cost to Install a Timer on a Water Heater?

The cost to install a water heater timer depends on the device. For example, a standard 120-volt appliance timer will typically work on a water heater that’s powered through a standard electrical outlet. Installation involves plugging the timer into the outlet and then plugging your water heater into the device, so you won’t have to pay a professional.

Gas water heater timers are also simple to install, so you won’t have to pay for installation. Some devices simply fit over your gas control knob.

Unless you’re a savvy DIYer, more complicated water heater timers require professional installation. Licensed electricians typically charge between $50 and $130 (CAD 68 to CAD 176) per hour. Installation generally costs about $70 (CAD 95).

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How Much Money Can a Water Heater Timer Save?

Most water heaters store hot water in a tank, so you’ll have it whenever you need it. If you don’t use it, it cools and must be reheated. This can result in wasted energy. Timers save money by turning your water heater off at night, when you’re not home or during peak energy demand times when costs are higher. According to ENERGY STAR, by using a timer this way, you can potentially save 5% to 12% on your utility bill.

The amount you’ll save depends largely on the type and age of your water heater and the predictability of your household’s water usage. A timer may not save you much on a new energy-efficient water heater. However, if you have an older model, your savings may be substantial. Homes with electric heaters generally reap the highest savings, while homes with gas-powered water heaters save substantially less thanks to the pilot light.

Similarly, if household members stick to a routine for showering, laundering and dishwashing, a timer could save you money. On the other hand, if your family’s schedule varies and you find yourself repeatedly changing the timer, your savings may be minimal.

Using a timer may also extend your appliance’s lifespan, which can provide additional savings beyond the energy reduction.

All CAD conversions are based on the exchange rate on the date of publication.