If you’re planning to go on vacation and wondering what to do with your gas water heater, there are a few things you should consider. Leaving your gas water heater idle for an extended period of time can have serious consequences. Here’s what you need to know about what to do with your gas water heater when going on vacation.
Turn it off
The most important thing you should do before leaving for vacation is to turn off your gas water heater. This will help prevent any potential accidents or leaks while you’re away. To turn off the gas water heater, locate the shut-off valve near the bottom of the tank and turn it clockwise until it stops.
Drain it
After turning off the gas supply, you can choose to drain the tank as well. Draining the tank will help remove any remaining water and sediment, preventing corrosion and other issues from developing over time. To drain a gas water heater, attach a garden hose to the drain valve at the bottom of the tank and let all of the water run out.
Adjust the temperature
Another thing you may want to consider is adjusting your gas water heater’s temperature before leaving for vacation. Lowering the temperature will not only save energy but also reduce any potential risks of overheating or scalding. You can adjust the temperature by turning down the thermostat knob on your gas water heater.
Consider hiring a professional
If you’re not comfortable performing these tasks yourself or if you have an older gas water heater, it may be wise to hire a professional plumber or HVAC technician to take care of things before going on vacation. They can inspect your system, make necessary adjustments, and ensure everything is functioning properly.
- Tip: It’s always best to perform regular maintenance and inspections on your gas water heater throughout the year so that you can avoid potential issues when you’re away on vacation.
Conclusion
In summary, turning off your gas water heater, draining it, and lowering the temperature are all important steps to take before going on vacation. By doing so, you can prevent any potential accidents or damage from occurring while you’re away.
If you’re not comfortable performing these tasks yourself or if you have an older gas water heater, consider hiring a professional to take care of things for you. Remember that regular maintenance and inspections are key to keeping your gas water heater in good working condition.