8 July 2026
What Is a Hot Water Timer? Save on Hot Water Energy Costs
With electricity offers changing across South East Queensland, many homeowners are starting to look at smarter ways to use power during the day. One option you may have heard about is a hot water timer.
A hot water timer is a device that controls when your electric hot water system turns on and heats water. Instead of your system heating whenever power is available, a timer can be set so your hot water heats during selected times of the day, such as when electricity is cheaper, solar generation is high, or during a free daytime electricity window.
Because hot water can be one of the bigger energy users in the home, a correctly set hot water timer may help reduce energy costs by heating water during lower-cost or free electricity periods, instead of during the evening peak.
But before you change anything, it is important to get the right advice.
Not every hot water system is suitable for a timer. Some electric hot water systems are connected to controlled load tariffs, such as Tariff 31 or Tariff 33, which already control when your hot water system receives power. Other households may use more hot water than others, meaning the wrong timer setup could lead to cold showers, poor performance or unexpected bill issues.
There are also safety considerations. Electric storage hot water systems still need to heat to safe temperatures to help protect water quality and reduce the risk of bacteria such as Legionella. That means it is not as simple as switching your system off and hoping for the best.
That is where Fallon can help.
A Fallon licensed electrician can check your hot water system, timer setup, electrical configuration and tariff connection to see whether your home can safely make better use of the 11am–2pm electricity window.
We will help you understand your options clearly, so you can make smarter energy choices without risking cold showers, safety concerns or unnecessary surprises on your power bill.
If you are thinking about adding or changing a hot water timer, book a Fallon electrician to check your setup first. We can be there today.
Hot water timer fully installed $499.00!
Includes 20-amp contactor switch with manual override
To book online, click here!
