I’ve been experimenting with ways to improve the efficiency of my tankless water heater, and I wanted to share my findings with the community. After switching from a traditional tank heater, I noticed some challenges with the recirculation system, especially given the long loop in my home. The built-in recirculation features weren’t quite meeting my needs, so I decided to get creative with virtual switches and automations.
For years, I relied on a system of virtual switches to trigger hourly checks and automations. This setup worked flawlessly until recently, when I noticed random behavior after an update. It’s frustrating when something so reliable starts acting up, but it’s a good reminder of how much we depend on these systems.
My current solution involves a combination of virtual switches and a smart contact switch to manage the recirculation pump. By setting up rules that trigger the pump at specific times and durations, I’ve been able to maintain hot water lines without constant running. The best part? It’s customizable to fit different needs, like longer cycles for dishwashers or shorter ones for baths.
I’d love to hear how others are tackling similar challenges. Have you found innovative ways to optimize your water heater efficiency? Let’s share tips and tricks to make our smart homes even smarter! 