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Heat.  We can’t live without it - and besides that - who would want to?

Waterbed owners have valued the therapeutic value of heat for years. Perhaps they know something the rest of us don’t. People who have problems falling asleep fast know the many benefits of climbing into a warm cozy mattress especially when it is freezing cold. Studies have shown that people fall asleep faster in a heated waterbed than any other mattress and if you talk around many waterbed owners will reiterate that.  But are they worth it, and are they expensive to operate?

The rates of operating a waterbed can depend on many things. First and foremost is what the temperature on the thermostat dial is set at. Most people set their waterbed heater between 87 and 90 degrees. This will determine whether the heating element will need to heat the water mattress or not. People who set the dial higher say 90 to 92 degrees will find they pay more than people who set the control at 86 to 88. Don’t let this deter you; its worth the cost.  This is all part of the comfort factor.  When it comes to bed temperature, to each his own.

Another factor in determining operational cost of a waterbed heater is room temperature. A cold room can make a heater operate longer, thus increasing cost. We suggest this simple tip to reduce cost - remember to keep the blankets pulled up to help hold in heat and insulate the waterbed. By pulling back your covers this can save you approximately 30%. Additional efficiency can be achieved by purchasing an insulated mattress cover that zips around the mattress. This type of mattress pad can be a savior when you have dogs or cats on a waterbed, the thicker the pad the greater efficiency and protection.

There are two types of waterbed heaters commonly used, the Solid State Heater and the old bulb and cap type thermostats. Solid State heaters can cut operating expense by approximately $1.50 a month. Cost of solid state heaters are around $70.00. Solid State heaters will pay themselves off in about 4 years. The average life on a good quality waterbed heater is 8 to 9 years if cared for properly.
Many people find with a waterbed that they do not need to keep the bedroom as warm because of a temperature controlled waterbed. The little bit of extra cost of a waterbed heater usually offsets this saving on your heating bill.

Finally, what does it cost to run that waterbed heater? It depends on previously mentioned factors and whether you own a hard side waterbed or a softside waterbed. According to several Utility companies based on a 7-10 cent Kilowatt-hour rate a waterbed heater pulling 400 watts would cost from $14 to $23 a month.

Keep in mind this is outdated information since most waterbeds sold today are softsides waterbeds. Softside waterbeds are more efficient and the heaters used on them normally pull only 200 watts or less. Today comfort, efficiency, and the therapeutic health benefits can be realized with a modern waterbed.