Are you planning a long vacation away from home? As you prepare for your trip, you might be wondering whether or not you should turn off your gas water heater.
After all, you want to save energy and minimize the risk of accidents while you’re gone. In this article, we’ll explore the pros and cons of turning off your gas water heater when on vacation.
Why You Might Want to Turn Off Your Gas Water Heater
- Save Energy: By turning off your gas water heater, you can save money on your energy bills. Heating water accounts for about 18% of the average household’s energy use, so shutting down your water heater while you’re away can make a significant difference in your overall usage.
- Avoid Accidents: Gas water heaters can be a fire hazard if not properly maintained or left unattended for extended periods of time. Turning off the gas supply valve and electricity to the unit reduces the risk of accidental fires or leaks.
Reasons Not To Turn Off Your Gas Water Heater
- Pilot Light: If you turn off the gas supply to your water heater, the pilot light will also go out. When you return from vacation and turn on the gas again, it might take some time for the pilot light to reignite and heat up the water.
- Possible Damage: If you live in an area where temperatures drop below freezing during winter months, turning off your gas water heater could cause damage to pipes and other parts of the unit due to frozen water inside.
What To Do Instead
If turning off your gas water heater completely is not an option for you, there are some alternatives you can consider:
- Lower the Temperature: Lowering the temperature of your gas water heater to 50-55 degrees Fahrenheit can help reduce energy consumption and still prevent freezing or damage to the unit. Make sure to check your owner’s manual for specific instructions on how to adjust the temperature.
- Ask a Neighbor: If you have a trustworthy neighbor, you can ask them to check your water heater periodically while you’re away. They can make sure there are no leaks or other issues that might occur while you’re gone.
Conclusion
In conclusion, whether or not you should turn off your gas water heater when on vacation depends on several factors. While it can save energy and reduce the risk of accidents, it could also cause damage or inconvenience if not done properly.
Consider the alternatives and choose what works best for your situation. By taking some simple steps before leaving, you can enjoy your vacation with peace of mind knowing that your home is safe and secure.
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