How to Use the Timer on Your Unvented Cylinder

Most of us take for granted the ability to enjoy hot water with just the twist of the tap. We don’t usually put much thought into how the water is heated or the energy used to do so. At least not until we see the bill.

A water heater timer can help you control your energy usage, reduce costs, and still enjoy hot water when you need it. Not sure how to use a timer with your unvented cylinder? Our guide will walk you through the process.

Understanding Unvented Water Heaters

First, why use an unvented water heater? Unvented cylinders offer several benefits over older-style vented cylinders, including improved water pressure throughout the home, no need for a cold-water storage tank, and the ability to be installed anywhere in your home, not just on higher floors.

Benefits of Using a Timer

Why should you use a timer? If you’re not sold on the benefits yet, let’s introduce them.

• Using a timer is more energy efficient, allowing you to reduce your energy consumption by heating water only when it’s truly needed.
• Timers save you money by reducing your energy bill because you won’t be heating water that you’re not using.
• Timers also help your household become more environmentally friendly and reduce your carbon footprint.

Types of Timers Suitable for Water Heaters

Now that you know a bit more about why you should use an unvented cylinder and the benefits of water heater timers, let’s talk timer types. There are three primary options on the market today:

Mechanical: Mechanical timers are simple to operate, very cost-effective, and easy to set. However, they do require hands-on operation (they can’t be operated remotely).

Digital: Digital timers are the water heater equivalent of digital home thermostats. You can program them to turn on and off at different times, offer more precise temperature control, and can come with many features not found on mechanical timers.

Smart: Smart timers can be operated via your smartphone, letting you control them remotely and offering advanced scheduling options. You can even connect them to smart home systems.

Step-by-Step Guide to Setting a Timer

The steps you follow to use your water heater timer will vary depending on the type chosen. In a nutshell, you’ll need to:

• Choose the times you want to heat water based on your water usage patterns.
• Set the timer to those times. With a mechanical timer, you’ll use pins to do that. Digital timers let you program them using buttons. Smart timers can be programmed by buttons on the timer or through the app on your phone.
• Adjust your heating settings for different days of the week. Note that mechanical timers offer very little flexibility in this area.
• Test the timer to make sure it activates and deactivates the water heater at the appropriate times.

Tips for Optimal Timer Use

To get the most out of your unvented cylinder timer, follow these tips:

• Set the timer to heat water only when you need it.
• Avoid constant heating by adjusting the timer based on your routine.
• Regularly review and adjust the timer settings to match changes in water usage.

Ready to take control of your energy use and utility bills? A water heater timer could be just the thing. Get in touch with us at EasyFlow for more information.