How Do You Turn Off a Gas Water Heater for a Vacation?

By Michael Ferguson

If you’re planning on going on vacation, turning off your gas water heater is one way to save energy and money. It’s a simple process that can be done in just a few steps.

Step 1: Locate the Gas Valve

The first step is to locate the gas valve on your water heater. This valve is usually located near the bottom of the tank and is connected to a gas line.

Step 2: Turn Off the Gas Valve

Using a wrench or pliers, turn the valve clockwise until it stops. This will shut off the flow of gas to the water heater and prevent it from heating up while you’re away.

Step 3: Turn Off the Water Supply

The next step is to turn off the water supply to your water heater. Look for a valve located near the top of the tank and turn it clockwise until it stops. This will prevent any new water from entering the tank while you’re away.

Step 4: Drain the Tank

To prevent any standing water from becoming stagnant, it’s a good idea to drain your tank before leaving for vacation. Attach a garden hose to the drain valve at the bottom of your tank and route it outside or into a floor drain. Open up this valve and let all of the water drain out completely.

Note:

  • If you have an electric water heater, turn off power by flipping circuit breaker instead of turning off gas valve.
  • If you have difficulty locating any valves or drains, consult manufacturer’s manual before proceeding.

Conclusion

Turning off your gas water heater before heading out for vacation can help save energy while also preventing any potential damage that could occur if there were an issue with your system while you were away. By following these simple steps, you can rest assured that your home will be safe and secure while you’re enjoying your time off.