Product Overview
The Intermatic EH10 Electric Water Heater Time Switch provides automatic control for electric water heaters. It offers precise programming and time-keeping capabilities, allowing for efficient management of hot water usage. This device supports various scheduling options, including daily, 5-day working week, weekend, or individual day scheduling, with up to 42 ON/OFF operations weekly. It features a convenient external override switch and an LED load indicator for user convenience.
Key Features:
- 42 ON/OFF Events Per Week: Efficiently manage your electric water heater with the ability to program up to 42 ON/OFF events per week, ensuring optimal control and energy savings.
- 7-Day Scheduling: Enjoy versatile scheduling options, including 7-day programming, for tailored control based on your specific water heating needs.
- To-the-Minute Programming and Accuracy: Achieve precision in programming and time-keeping accuracy down to the minute, providing reliable performance for your water heating requirements.
- External Override Switch: The convenient external override switch allows for immediate manual control adjustments, offering flexibility in scheduling hot water as needed.
- LED Load Indicator: Stay informed about your water heater's status with the LED load indicator, providing a visual cue for ease in monitoring and managing hot water demands.
Setup and Installation
Installation of the Intermatic EH10 should be performed by a qualified electrician in accordance with all local and national electrical codes. The unit is designed for wall mounting and operates at 120 VAC at 50/60 Hz.
Internal Components and Wiring:
The image below displays the internal layout of the Intermatic EH10, showing the control panel, battery compartment, and wiring terminals. Proper connection to Neutral, Line 1, and Load 1 terminals is crucial for safe and effective operation. Always ensure power is disconnected before performing any wiring.

Figure 1: Internal view of the EH10 Time Switch, highlighting the control panel and wiring terminals.
Visualizing the Installation:
The Intermatic EH10 is typically installed on a wall near the electric water heater. Its compact design allows for discreet placement while providing easy access to controls.

Figure 2: Example installation of the EH10 Time Switch adjacent to an electric water heater.
Setup and Programming Video Guide:
For a comprehensive visual guide on setting up and programming your EH10 time switch, please refer to the official video below. This video covers initial setup, setting the current time, and programming schedules.
Video: How to Set up and Program the EH Series Water Heater Timer by Intermatic.
Operating Instructions
The EH10 features an intuitive control panel for easy operation. The front panel includes a digital display, selector switches, and push buttons for setting time and programming events.

Figure 3: Front control panel of the EH10 Time Switch.
Setting Current Time:
- Move the right selector switch to the TIME SET position.
- Press the DAY button to advance to the current day.
- Set the hour using the HOUR button, being mindful of AM/PM settings.
- Set the minutes using the MIN button. You can hold the button down to advance more quickly.
Programming a Schedule:
- Move the right selector switch to the PROG position. The display will show "On" and "1", indicating you are setting the ON time for the first program.
- Press the DAY button to select the day or combination of days for the ON event.
- Set the ON hour and minute using the HOUR and MIN buttons.
- To set the OFF time for the first program, press the ON/OFF EVENT button. The display will show "Off" and "1".
- Press the DAY button to select the day or combination of days for the OFF event.
- Set the OFF hour and minute using the HOUR and MIN buttons.
- Repeat steps 2-6 for additional ON/OFF events (up to 42 per week).
Running the Programmed Schedule:
After programming, move the right selector switch to the RUN position. Ensure the left selector switch is in the AUTO position for automatic operation based on your set schedule.
Manual Override:
To temporarily override the programmed schedule, move the left selector switch to the MAN (Manual) position. You can then manually turn the timer ON or OFF using the ON/OFF EVENT button. To resume the programmed schedule, return the left selector switch to AUTO and the right selector switch to RUN, then press the ON/OFF EVENT button once.
LED Load Indicator:
The red LED load indicator light on the control panel provides a visual cue of the water heater's status. When the light is on, the load is active (water heater is receiving power). This indicator is visible even when the enclosure door is closed.
Maintenance
Battery Replacement:
The EH10 time switch includes an "AA" alkaline battery for time-keeping and program information carryover during power outages. This battery typically protects data for a minimum of 3 years. If the display is blank or programming is lost after a power interruption, the battery may need replacement. Refer to the internal diagram for battery compartment location.
Cleaning:
Periodically clean the exterior of the time switch with a soft, dry cloth. Do not use abrasive cleaners or solvents, as they may damage the unit's finish or internal components.
Troubleshooting
| Problem | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Timer display is blank or unit does not respond. | No power supply or dead backup battery. | Check power connection to the unit. Replace the "AA" alkaline backup battery. |
| Programmed schedule is not running. | Selector switches are not in the correct position (RUN/AUTO). | Ensure the right selector switch is in the RUN position and the left selector switch is in the AUTO position. |
| Water heater is not turning ON/OFF at programmed times. | Incorrect programming or manual override is active. | Review your programmed ON/OFF events. Ensure the left selector switch is in AUTO. |
| Unit gets warm or emits a slight odor. | Normal operation for electrical components, or potential overload/fault. | A slight warmth and new plastic smell can be normal initially. If excessive heat or a burning smell persists, disconnect power immediately and consult a qualified electrician. |
Specifications
- Manufacturer: Intermatic
- Part Number: EH10
- Item Weight: 2.3 pounds
- Product Dimensions: 5.3 x 3.3 x 8 inches
- Item Model Number: EH10
- Color: Color (as per product data, typically gray)
- Style: 120V 3,600 Watts
- Material: Steel
- Thickness: 1 Inches
- Voltage: 120 Volts
- Item Package Quantity: 1
- Mounting Type: Wall Mount
- Switch Style: Slide
- Batteries Included?: No (refers to initial packaging, but unit uses an "AA" battery for backup)
- Batteries Required?: No (refers to primary operation, but "AA" battery is needed for memory backup)
- Date First Available: June 27, 2006
Warranty and Support
Warranty Information:
The Intermatic EH10 Electric Water Heater Time Switch comes with a 1-Year Warranty. This warranty covers replacement of the unit but does not include labor costs.
Technical Support:
For any questions, assistance with setup, programming, or troubleshooting, please contact Intermatic Technical Support:
- Phone: (815) 675-7000
- Hours: Monday - Friday, 8:00 AM - 4:30 PM CST
- Email: TechSupport@Intermatic.com





