Power saving with the water heater

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the potential power savings associated with turning a water heater on and off, exploring various strategies and considerations related to energy consumption and efficiency. Participants discuss the implications of timing, alternative energy sources, and the efficiency of different water heaters.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Debate/contested
  • Technical explanation

Main Points Raised

  • One participant questions whether turning the water heater on and off would save power, prompting others to consider the duration of the off period.
  • Another participant suggests that turning the heater off for a longer duration, such as during a month-long vacation, could lead to savings.
  • Some participants propose looking into alternative energy sources like solar cells or windmills to increase electricity availability rather than focusing solely on consumption reduction.
  • A participant mentions that using a timer for the water heater could result in savings over time, estimating an eight-year payback period for the timer's cost.
  • Concerns are raised about the practicality and cost-effectiveness of solar cells and windmills, with one participant expressing skepticism about their feasibility given personal circumstances.
  • There is a mention of water heater efficiency and insulation as factors that could contribute to reduced energy consumption, along with suggestions to adjust the temperature settings.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express differing views on the effectiveness of turning the water heater on and off for power savings, with some suggesting it may not be beneficial for short durations while others see potential savings for longer periods. There is no consensus on the best approach to energy savings, and multiple competing views remain regarding alternative energy sources and water heater efficiency.

Contextual Notes

Some participants express uncertainty about the specifics of water heater efficiency and the effectiveness of timers, indicating that further details or definitions may be necessary for a clearer understanding of the topic.

Who May Find This Useful

Individuals interested in energy conservation, homeowners considering water heater efficiency, and those exploring alternative energy solutions may find this discussion relevant.

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Will turning the water heater on and off save pwoer!>!>?!?
 
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How long did you plan to turn it off? If you're just going to turn it off a few hours and turn it back on when it's time to shower, probably not. But if you're going away for a month's vacation, it would.
 
Perhaps instead of being concerned with the consumption aspect you should simply increase amount of electricity available to you - get solar cells, windmills, etc?
 
I notice you are in Guam. If you are considering getting a timer that controls the time your electric heater switches on, I'd say you would save enough money in eight years to pay for the timer.
 
Chi Meson said:
I notice you are in Guam. If you are considering getting a timer that controls the time your electric heater switches on, I'd say you would save enough money in eight years to pay for the timer.
:smile:

thats cold dude
 
Some water heaters are more efficient, or insulation on the heater (not sure of the details on this one) can help reduce energy consumption, or turning it down a degree or two (or five) so it doesn't need to heat up so much - These things help too.
 
Moonbear said:
How long did you plan to turn it off? If you're just going to turn it off a few hours and turn it back on when it's time to shower, probably not. But if you're going away for a month's vacation, it would.
I'm not planning on anything, I just am curious. The first one.

cronxeh said:
Perhaps instead of being concerned with the consumption aspect you should simply increase amount of electricity available to you - get solar cells, windmills, etc?
Solar cells would cost more than I would gain, and windmills! I don't have enough land, I don't have enough money, and Greenpeace people would be knocking on my door how I'm hunting birds unfairly.

Chi Meson said:
I notice you are in Guam. If you are considering getting a timer that controls the time your electric heater switches on, I'd say you would save enough money in eight years to pay for the timer.
Well, I'm not considering the water at all for that reason.
 

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