Best Smart Water Heater Timers for Energy Savings
If you want to save energy and have hot water when you need it, a smart water heater timer is a practical choice. These devices learn schedules, allow remote control from a phone or voice assistant, and install quickly on storage-style or standard electric water heaters. This guide highlights five reliable options ideal for different home setups. It explains who each product is best for, what makes them stand out, and where a limitation may exist.
| Product | Best For | Why It Stands Out |
|---|---|---|
| Aquanta Smart Water Heater Timer (Alexa compatible) | Homeowners seeking hands-free scheduling for storage electric water heaters | Learns your routine and supports remote control via smart devices; UL safety certified |
| Aquanta Digital Water Heater Timer (WiFi) | Users wanting WiFi control and a leak sensor | Remote adjustments and leak sensing add peace of mind for storage heaters |
| Intermatic WH40 Electric Water Heater Timer | Budget-conscious buyers needing a simple external override option | Reliable, high-capacity timer with straightforward operation and override switch |
| Aquanta Smart Water Heater Timer (Gas compatible) | Gas water heater users who want smart scheduling | Same smart controls and scheduling as the electric version, compatible with storage-style heaters |
| DEWENWILS Pool Pump Timer (Outdoor WiFi) | Homes with outdoor water heaters or other high-power devices needing remote control | Versatile modes and remote voice control, compatible with Alexa and Google Assistant |
Aquanta Smart Water Heater Timer: Alexa Ready
- Features: HOT WATER WHEN YOU NEED IT; SMART TECHNOLOGY; MADE FOR STORAGE STYLE WATER HEATERS
The Aquanta timer is best for homeowners who want a compact, plug-and-play solution that learns daily routines. It is ideal for storage-style electric water heaters and supports remote control via a smart device. Choose this if you want a simple upgrade that reduces manual operation and improves on-demand hot water. A potential limitation is its focus on storage heaters, so replaceable configurations may be necessary for non-storage models.
Aquanta Digital Water Heater Timer with WiFi
- Features: Hot Water when you need it; Smart technology; Made for storage-style water heaters
Use this model when you want WiFi control plus a built-in leak sensor. It suits households that value remote adjustments and safety monitoring for storage heaters. Best for busy families who want to confirm hot water availability from anywhere. A caution is that it is designed for storage-type heaters, so compatibility with other heater types should be verified.
Intermatic WH40 Electric Water Heater Timer
- Features: Easy to use; External override switch; 10,000 watts; 40 amps; 250 volts; 60Hz
INTERMATIC WH40 is best for users who want a robust, straightforward timer with a strong external override. It supports high electrical loads and is a solid choice for traditional electric water heaters. The limitation is that it lacks built-in smart connectivity or app control, requiring manual operation or separate smart devices for automation.
Aquanta Smart Water Heater Timer (Gas)
- Features: HOT WATER WHEN YOU NEED IT; SMART TECHNOLOGY; MADE FOR STORAGE STYLE WATER HEATERS
Best for households with gas storage water heaters that still want smart scheduling. This model mirrors the electric version’s scheduling and remote control features while accommodating gas-fired systems. Note that the focus remains on storage-style heaters, so homes with non-storage configurations should verify compatibility before purchase.
DEWENWILS Pool Timer: Outdoor WiFi Box
- Features: Versatile timer function; Remote & voice control; 2.4 GHz Wi-Fi; Easy wiring
This timer is best for homes needing a flexible outdoor control option for high-power devices, including water heaters in outdoor installations or pool equipment. It supports multiple scheduling modes and works with smart assistants. Avoid this if your home uses 5 GHz networks since it requires 2.4 GHz Wi‑Fi only.
SURAIELEC WiFi Pool Timer
- Features: Heavy Duty 40 AMP; Remote control via Tuya Smart Life; 2.4 GHz Wi-Fi; ETL Listed
Choose this timer if you need a rugged, high-amperage option for outdoor or garage installations. It supports remote management through popular apps and is compatible with voice assistants. It operates on 2.4 GHz networks and requires app setup for remote control.
DEWENWILS Pool Pump Timer: Outdoor WiFi Box
- Features: Versatile timer function; Remote & voice control; 2.4 GHz Wi-Fi; Easy wiring
Best for homes needing a flexible, outdoor timer that integrates with smart home ecosystems. It supports several timer modes and works with Alexa and Google Assistant. A limitation is its reliance on 2.4 GHz Wi-Fi and smart life compatibility for full features.
Buying Guide: Key Considerations for Smart Water Heater Timers
- Compatibility: Confirm storage-style vs. tank types. Some timers focus on storage electric or gas heaters; verify model compatibility with your heater.
- Connectivity: Decide between WiFi-enabled timers and Bluetooth or standalone units. WiFi provides remote access but may require a stable network.
- Power Handling: Check amperage and wattage ratings to ensure the timer supports your heater’s draw. High-power units may need professional installation.
- Smart Features: Consider scheduling modes (program, countdown, random, astronomical), leak sensing, and app control. These features affect energy savings and convenience.
- Installation: Look for units that install quickly with minimal plumbing or wiring. Some models offer external override switches for manual control.
- Voice Assistant Compatibility: If you use Alexa or Google Assistant, ensure the timer supports your preferred ecosystem for hands-free control.
- Safety Certifications: UL or ETL listings indicate adherence to safety standards. This is important for any device connected to home water heaters.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is a smart water heater timer?
A smart water heater timer is a device that schedules when a water heater turns on or off, often via WiFi and a mobile app or voice assistant.
- Do these timers work with gas water heaters?
Some models are designed for gas or storage-style heaters; verify compatibility before purchasing.
- Can I control these timers remotely?
Many timers support remote control through a smartphone app or smart home platform.
- Are there safety concerns installing a timer on a water heater?
Follow manufacturer instructions and consider professional installation for high-power units.
- Do timers require a hub or bridge?
Some models run directly on 2.4 GHz Wi‑Fi without a hub, while others may need a compatible smart home hub.
- Will a timer save energy?
Yes, by turning off the heater when hot water isn’t needed and aligning with your routine, you can reduce standby heat loss and energy use.