Step 2: Optimizing Your Operation

Operating Your Water Heater

A successful electrification project doesn’t just end at installation, getting on the right time of use rate and setting your water heater to load shift away from peak times are the key to a successful experience. Here are some simple steps to optimize your operation.

Set Up Your time-of-use Electric rate

There are a number of Time-Of-Use (TOU) electric rates and which one is best for you depends on how much electricity you use and when you use it.

We recommend using PG&E’s rate analysis tool to find out which rate will be best for you, then contact PG&E to get it changed.

Apply to WatterSaver

Customers having difficulty enrolling their water heater in WatterSaver can elect to enroll your customer account in the hourly flex pricing pilot as an alternative. Through the pilot, there are a varying electricity costs for every hour and you can receive additional bill credits when you shift your usage to respond to high prices. The pilot is only valid for customers on an E-ELEC and EV2-A electric rates.

Enrolling in a load Shift Program

WatterSaver is a load shift program that will automatically set your water heater each day to optimize your water heater and is required to obtain bill credits. WatterSaver uses WIFI or cellular technology to communicate directly with your water heater to automatically optimize its operation to utilize the lowest cost of electricity.

Get a Free Water-Wise Evaluation

Don’t forget about water efficiency! Now that you’ve installed a new heat pump water heater, you can save on both your electricity and water bill by upgrading your shower head and other water fixtures. SFPUC’s Water Programs can help with free evaluations and assistance. Click here for more information.