How long should you turn on the water heater before use?
Water heaters work similarly to electric kettles. Inside the heater is a heating element that heats up when turned on, causing the water to heat up as well. Once the water reaches a certain temperature, the heater’s relay will automatically turn off the power. This temperature can be adjusted according to your needs.
However, if left on for an extended period, the water will eventually cool down, causing the relay to turn on again and reheat the water. This cycle can repeat continuously until the power to the heater is completely turned off. A typical water heater has a power consumption of about 2,200W-2,500W, so leaving it on all day can result in significant electricity usage.
Keeping the water heater on 24/7 will reduce its lifespan and is unnecessary, as the demand for hot water in a household is not that high.
It is recommended to turn on the water heater about 10-15 minutes before use and then turn it off to ensure safety during operation. When the hot water runs out, you can turn on the heater again. Due to its high power, the heater will quickly heat the water, so you won’t have to wait long for hot water.
Some additional notes on using a water heater:
– Don’t turn on the water heater while showering
Manufacturers may design water heaters with an anti-leak feature, but over time, its effectiveness may decrease. To ensure safety, heat enough water before showering, and then turn off the heater.
– Use a grounding wire for the heater
When installing the water heater, pay attention to the grounding wire, which helps prevent electric leaks and reduces the risk of electric shocks during use.
– Regular maintenance and cleaning of the heater
Water heaters should be inspected regularly to detect any potential issues early on. Additionally, you can clean the heater to remove any built-up sediment inside.