If you’re planning to go on vacation, there are a few things that you need to take care of before you leave. One of the most crucial things to consider is your water heater.
While you’re away, it’s important to make sure that your water heater is properly maintained and secure. In this article, we’ll discuss what you need to do with your water heater before going on vacation.
Step 1: Turn Off the Power
The first thing that you should do is turn off the power supply to your water heater. If you have an electric water heater, find the circuit breaker that powers it and turn it off. If you have a gas water heater, turn off the gas supply valve.
Step 2: Turn Off the Water Supply
The next step is to turn off the water supply to your water heater. Locate the valve that controls the flow of water into your tank and close it. This will prevent any new water from entering the tank while you’re away.
Step 3: Drain Your Water Heater
Drain your water heater to prevent any buildup or sediment from accumulating while you’re away. To do this, connect a garden hose to the drain valve at the bottom of your tank and point it towards a floor drain or outside. Open the valve and let all of the water drain out of your tank.
Pro Tip:
If you don’t know how to drain your water heater or don’t feel comfortable doing it yourself, contact a professional plumber for assistance.
Step 4: Set Your Water Heater to Vacation Mode
If your water heater has a vacation mode setting, make sure to activate it before leaving. This setting will keep your tank warm enough so that bacteria doesn’t grow but not hot enough for regular use.
- Electric Water Heater: Locate the temperature dial on your water heater and turn it to the “vacation” setting.
- Gas Water Heater: Look for the temperature dial on the gas valve and turn it to “vacation.”
Step 5: Inspect Your Water Heater
Before leaving, take a few minutes to inspect your water heater for any leaks or signs of corrosion. If you notice anything out of the ordinary, contact a professional plumber to address the issue before you leave.
Conclusion
Taking care of your water heater before going on vacation is essential to ensure its proper functioning when you return. By following these steps, you can rest assured that your water heater will remain safe and well-maintained while you’re away. Don’t forget to seek professional help if needed, and enjoy your vacation without worrying about your home’s plumbing system!