An electric water heater that runs all day, every day heats water nobody is using. The Intermatic WH21 is a 24-hour electromechanical time switch for 208-250 VAC water heaters and similar loads, with an SPST contact rated 25 A resistive (6,250 W at 250 V). It lets owners schedule heating around the household's use or shift it to off-peak hours, and an external override button brings on hot water outside the schedule.
Why homeowners and electricians pick it
- 25 A resistive SPST contact handles typical residential electric water heaters.
- Two sets of ON/OFF trippers included; the dial supports up to 12 ON/12 OFF events per day.
- External override push button for hot water on demand.
- Accepts #14 to #10 AWG wire.
- NEMA 1 indoor enclosure, rated -40°F to 130°F.
Specifications
| Spec |
Detail |
| Brand |
Intermatic |
| Model |
WH21 |
| Type |
24-hour water heater time switch |
| Voltage |
208-250 VAC, 60 Hz |
| Contact |
SPST, 25 A resistive (6,250 W) |
| Programming |
2 sets of trippers; up to 12 ON/12 OFF per day; 30-minute minimum |
| Override |
External push button |
| Wire size |
#14 to #10 AWG |
| Enclosure |
NEMA 1 (indoor) |
| Dimensions |
Approx. 5-1/4 in W x 6-3/4 in H x 3-1/4 in D |
Pro tip from the counter
The WH21 is single-pole, so on a 240 V water heater it opens only one hot leg and the heater terminals stay energized from the other leg when the timer is off. Always shut the breaker before servicing elements or thermostats, and if the job calls for both legs to be broken, choose the double-pole WH40 instead.
Best for: electric water heaters, off-peak and time-of-use scheduling, cottages and seasonal properties, greenhouse misting and agricultural feeders
Ships Canada-wide from Vaughan, ON. Contractors can get trade pricing via a quote or by calling (905) 553-7171.