I had my sparkie fit a user programmable timer switch to my meter box so I can set the HWS to come on whenever it suits me. I have a temp readout in the laundry so I can boost it only if I need to, sometimes after a power failure. Selecting auto + on allows the HWS to stay on until the next programmed off time, no extra thought needed.
I suspect the reasoning for permanently on HWS is to prevent the water temp from dropping below around 50C at which level the water no longer kills pathogens. Monitoring does just as good a job, especially if you're not a heavy user of hot water.
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