Water Heater Switch/Rebate Program

Electric water heaters are high energy consumption appliances, especially in households with children and teenagers. Laundry, dish washing, bathingÉ electric water heaters get a real work out. Fortunately, modern electric water heaters are more energy efficient than everÉ besides being cleaner, healthier, and safer. Electric water heaters are the choice in more homes than ever before.

During periods of heavy electric demand - especially in extreme winter temperature periods - the ability to temporarily interrupt power to water heaters can save Buckeye REC hundreds of thousands of dollars.

Qualifying co-op members can earn a $1-per-month credit on their electric bills for allowing Buckeye to install a radio control switch on their water heaters (50-gallon capacity or larger). The radio control switches are operated only to help Buckeye REC avoid an expensive system peak demand situation. In most instances, the load control period is at a time of day when temporary interruption of power to water heaters will not be inconvenient or noticeable.

Co-op members who install a new 75- to 80-gallon electric water heater, as part of new home construction or to replace a non-electric water heater, and who agree to equip the water heater with a new the radio control switch, can receive a $300 or $400 rebate. (Amount of rebate depends on size and warranty of electric water heater and other availability factors.) Call Buckeye REC at 1-800-231-2732 for more information.