Water Heater Hibernation: How to Safeguard Your Home and Save Energy While You’re Away
What To Know
- If you live in an area with freezing temperatures, turning off the water heater could cause the water in the tank to freeze and expand, damaging the tank.
- If you’re only going on a short vacation (less than a week), it’s not necessary to turn off the water heater.
- You can leave your electric water heater turned off for as long as you need, as long as you take the necessary precautions to drain the tank and prevent freezing.
Are you planning a well-deserved vacation? Don’t forget to take care of your home while you’re away. One important task is to turn off your electric water heater. This simple step can help save energy and prevent potential problems. Here’s a comprehensive guide to show you how to turn off your electric water heater before you head out on your trip:
Step 1: Safety Precautions
Before you begin, ensure you’re taking the necessary safety precautions:
- Turn off the power to the water heater at the circuit breaker or fuse box.
- Allow the water heater to cool down for at least 30 minutes before touching any components.
Step 2: Locate the Drain Valve
Most electric water heaters have a drain valve located near the bottom. It’s usually a small, red or blue valve.
Step 3: Drain the Tank
Connect a hose to the drain valve and open it. Drain the water from the tank into a bucket or drain. This will take some time, so be patient.
Step 4: Close the Drain Valve
Once the tank is empty, close the drain valve tightly.
Step 5: Turn Off the Gas Valve (Gas Water Heaters Only)
If you have a gas water heater, locate the gas valve and turn it off. This valve is usually located near the bottom of the water heater.
Step 6: Disconnect the Power
Disconnect the power cord from the water heater‘s electrical outlet.
Step 7: Check for Leaks
Before you leave, check for any leaks around the drain valve or any other connections. If you notice any leaks, call a plumber for assistance.
Benefits of Turning Off Electric Water Heater for Vacation
- Energy Savings: Turning off your water heater will prevent it from heating water that you won’t be using. This can result in significant energy savings.
- Reduced Risk of Leaks: When the water heater is off, there’s no pressure on the tank or pipes, reducing the risk of leaks.
- Prevention of Overheating: If the water heater is accidentally left on while you’re away, it could overheat and cause damage. Turning it off eliminates this risk.
When Not to Turn Off Electric Water Heater
In some cases, it’s not advisable to turn off your electric water heater for vacation, such as:
- Freezing Temperatures: If you live in an area with freezing temperatures, turning off the water heater could cause the water in the tank to freeze and expand, damaging the tank.
- Short Vacation: If you’re only going on a short vacation (less than a week), it’s not necessary to turn off the water heater.
In a nutshell: Ensuring a Safe and Energy-Efficient Vacation
By following these steps, you can safely and effectively turn off your electric water heater before your vacation. This simple task will help you save energy, reduce the risk of leaks, and ensure that your water heater is ready to use when you return. Enjoy your vacation with peace of mind, knowing that your home is well taken care of!
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How long can I leave my electric water heater turned off?
A: You can leave your electric water heater turned off for as long as you need, as long as you take the necessary precautions to drain the tank and prevent freezing.
Q: What happens if I don’t turn off my electric water heater for vacation?
A: Leaving your electric water heater on while you’re away can waste energy, increase the risk of leaks, and potentially lead to overheating.
Q: Can I turn off my gas water heater for vacation?
A: Yes, you can turn off your gas water heater for vacation by following the steps outlined in this guide. Remember to turn off the gas valve before disconnecting the power.
