Are you going on vacation soon and wondering how to turn off your water heater? It’s important to know how to properly shut down your water heater before leaving your home for an extended period of time.
This not only helps save energy but also prevents any potential damage that can occur while you’re away. Below, we’ve provided a step-by-step guide on how to turn off your water heater before going on vacation.
Step 1: Turn Off the Power Supply
The first and most important step is to turn off the power supply to the water heater. This can be done by turning off the circuit breaker that powers the water heater.
Locate the circuit breaker box in your house, which is usually found in the basement or utility room. Look for a switch labeled “water heater” or “hot water tank” and flip it to the “off” position.
Note:
It’s important to make sure that you are turning off the correct circuit breaker for your water heater. If you’re unsure which one it is, consult your owner’s manual or contact a licensed electrician.
Step 2: Turn Off the Water Supply
Next, turn off the water supply valve that provides water to your hot water tank. This valve is typically located near the top of the tank and can be turned clockwise to shut it off.
If you have trouble locating this valve, check your owner’s manual or contact a licensed plumber.
Step 3: Drain Your Water Heater
After turning off both power and water supply valves, it’s time to drain your hot water tank. This will help prevent any potential damage caused by stagnant water sitting in your tank while you’re away.
- Attach a garden hose to the drain valve located at the bottom of your hot water tank.
- Place the other end of the hose in a suitable drainage area, such as a sink or outdoors.
- Open the drain valve and allow the water to drain out of your tank completely.
Be careful while draining your hot water tank, as the water that comes out can be extremely hot. Make sure to wear protective gloves and keep children and pets away from the area.
Step 4: Turn Off Gas Supply (if applicable)
If you have a gas-powered hot water tank, it’s important to turn off the gas supply valve before leaving for vacation. The valve is typically located near or on the gas line leading to your tank.
Final Thoughts
By following these steps, you can properly turn off your water heater before going on vacation. This not only helps save energy but also prevents any potential damage that can occur while you’re away. Remember to consult your owner’s manual or contact a licensed professional if you have any questions or concerns about turning off your hot water tank.