Immersion heater.......

sistafromanothermista

Evening all :wave:
I'm after a bit of advice for my father.
He has a (really old) immersion heater which heats the hot water.
He doesn't have any heating (old terrace) except an electric fire downstairs and a movable electric one upstairs.
He is wondering whether it would be cheaper to either;
A. Leave it on constantly
B. Only put on when it's required (1/2 hr before)


Any help much appreciated.

Cardew

It is cheaper to switch on when required.

How much cheaper depends on how well the hot water tank is insulated; it doesn't matter how old the immersion heater is, as long as it works it is as efficient as a brand new immersion heater.

If it is a modern tank with a foam covering the heat loss is low. If it is an old tank any insulation you can wrap around the tank will help - old duvets, blankets etc.

sistafromanothermista

Thanks. That's a great help thanks.