## Is a Water Heater a Continuous Load?
A continuous load is an electrical appliance that draws power continuously, even when it is not actively being used. Examples of continuous loads include refrigerators, freezers, and air conditioners.
Water heaters, on the other hand, are not continuous loads. They only draw power when they are actively heating water. Once the water has reached the desired temperature, the water heater will turn off and stop drawing power.
### How Water Heaters Work
Water heaters work by heating water in a tank. When the water in the tank cools down, the water heater will turn on and begin heating the water again. The water heater will continue to cycle on and off as needed to maintain the desired water temperature.
### Energy Consumption of Water Heaters
Water heaters are one of the largest energy consumers in a home. In fact, they account for about 18% of the average home’s energy usage.
There are a number of factors that affect the energy consumption of a water heater, including:
The size of the water heater: Larger water heaters consume more energy than smaller water heaters.
The type of water heater: Electric water heaters consume more energy than gas water heaters.
The insulation of the water heater: Water heaters with better insulation lose less heat, which means they consume less energy.
The temperature of the water heater: Water heaters that are set to a higher temperature consume more energy than water heaters that are set to a lower temperature.
### Ways to Reduce the Energy Consumption of a Water Heater
There are a number of things you can do to reduce the energy consumption of your water heater, including:
Insulate your water heater: Adding insulation to your water heater can help to reduce heat loss and lower your energy bills.
Lower the temperature of your water heater: Lowering the temperature of your water heater can save you a significant amount of energy.
Use a timer to turn off your water heater: If you have a water heater that is not used regularly, you can use a timer to turn it off when it is not needed.
Consider replacing your old water heater: If your water heater is old and inefficient, replacing it with a new, energy-efficient model can save you a lot of money on your energy bills.
### Conclusion
Water heaters are not continuous loads. They only draw power when they are actively heating water. However, water heaters are still one of the largest energy consumers in a home. By taking steps to reduce the energy consumption of your water heater, you can save money on your energy bills and help to protect the environment.
## Additional Information
[Energy Saver: Water Heaters](https://www.energy.gov/energysaver/water-heating/water-heaters)
[Water Heater Energy Guide](https://www.energystar.gov/products/water_heaters)
[How to Save Money on Water Heater Costs](https://www.consumerreports.org/cro/water-heaters/how-to-save-money-on-water-heater-costs/index.htm)