Summer’s coming up fast. That means swimming pools, barbeques, and most importantly, vacations. While we’re all excited to get back to proper vacations after the last two years, you may want to take a moment to consider your home services before you head out. Your water heater in particular is something that to think about before you leave home for a week. Here’s what you can do to conserve hot water while you’re enjoying some much needed R&R.
What Is Water Heater Vacation Mode
What is “Vacation Mode?” More and more water heater brands are outfitting their products with a setting that allows homes to conserve energy and hot water while the residents are away for an extended period of time. What vacation mode essentially does is run your boiler at lower than normal temperatures to save on energy. Most manufacturers have their vacation mode set to around 50 degrees Fahrenheit, which is just enough to reliably prevent freezing in colder climates.
How To Turn On and Off Your Water Heater Vacation
Using your water heater’s vacation mode is a simple way to save energy and avoid problems while you’re away. Before you leave for a longer trip, try turning on vacation mode over a weekend to make sure it works as expected. This feature can help lower your energy bills by 10-15% during extended absences, and it also helps prevent issues that can come from hot water sitting unused in your tank.
To Turn On Your Water Heater Vacation Mode:
For digital models, locate the control panel or thermostat menu on your water heater. Look for a “Vacation Mode” or “Vacation Setting” option. Select and confirm your selection. Adjust the duration or temperature if your model allows.
For analog or older models, find the temperature dial on your water heater. Turn the dial down to the “Vacation,” “Pilot,” or the lowest temperature setting, usually around 50°F. Always check your user manual for model-specific instructions.
To Turn Off Your Water Heater Vacation Mode:
For digital models, return to the control panel or thermostat menu. Select your normal or preferred temperature setting, or choose “Exit Vacation Mode” if available.
For analog or older models, turn the temperature dial back up to your usual hot water setting. Confirm that your water heater is heating water as normal before use.
Why Use Vacation Settings?
The short answer? Money. The long answer? Heating water takes a considerable amount of energy and that’s doubly true when you’re not even home to reap the benefits of the energy-intensive process. If you’re in a position where you have to worry about money, which is most people these days, take care to save the most amount of money possible on your plumbing and water heating needs.
Water Heater Malfunction? Call Our Experts for Immediate Repair.
If your water heater is malfunctioning, our experts at Payless Water Heaters are prepared to remedy the situation and get your hot water working again: (866) 615-4008.
