What Temperature Is Vacation Mode On Water Heater? - ERNIEGRAVES

Should You Turn Off Your Water Heater When on Vacation?

Previous Post Next Post If you’re planning a trip in the near future, you might be wondering what precautions you should take to conserve energy while your home is unoccupied.Here are some suggestions.For example, most homeowners adjust the temperature of their HVAC systems to a lower or higher setting depending on the season, or they turn them off completely before leaving the house.Appliances can be unplugged and lights may be turned off while on vacation, but should you turn off your water heater while away from home?

Turning Off Your Water Heater Does Not Provide Significant Energy Savings

Turning off your water heater for a typical week-long trip will not result in any major energy savings, according to the EPA. As a matter of fact, depending on the type and model of your unit, you’re likely to experience savings of only a few cents each day at most. Turning off your water heater isn’t required unless you’re planning to be away from home for a month or more.

Shutting Off Your Water Heater Can Cause Problems

If you leave your water heater turned off while on vacation, you may find yourself with water heater troubles when you return.The most obvious problem is that you won’t have access to hot water during your stay.For those post-travel showers, it might take up to an hour for any hot water to become accessible, and that’s only if you’re able to turn your water heater back on again.Depending on how old your unit is, you may have some trouble turning it back on after it has been turned off for a period of many days.The stress of having to restart the system of an older unit might result in water heater repairs or even a complete replacement of the device.

Should You Turn Off Your Water Heater When Not in Use?

As an alternative to shutting off your water heater before you leave, set it to ″vacation″ mode before you go.If your unit does not have a vacation setting, you can manually adjust the temperature to anywhere between 50 and 70 degrees Fahrenheit.You may still save a few dollars while guaranteeing that your water heater is still operational when you return from your vacation, despite the fact that the energy savings will be minor.If you are going on a lengthy vacation and will be emptying and turning off your water heater before you go, be sure to read the instructions that came with your water heater before you depart.When you switch your unit back on, make sure to follow the directions exactly as written to avoid any problems.

In the event that you are experiencing difficulty turning on your water heater, contact your local Aire Serv at (855) 259 – 2280.
Best of luck on your journey!
Looking for the pressure release valve for your water heater?
Mr.
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Take a look at this blog post to find out where it is and how to test it: Is it possible to get to the pressure relief valve on a hot water heater?The link will open in a new tab.The Mr.

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A Few Suggestions Before You Go On Vacation – Water Heater, Programmable Thermostat – Gazifère

Before you embark on your vacation, consider the following suggestions to help you minimize your energy use a little and, most importantly, to help you sleep better while you’re away.

HEATING

Reduce the temperature on the thermostat.You should set the thermostat two to three degrees lower than usual if you are just going to be gone for a couple of weeks or less.If your thermostat is preset for various temperatures at different times of the day and night, it is recommended that you adjust it to the temperature you prefer at night.If you decrease the temperature any more, you will spend less energy while you are away, but when you return, you will have to use more energy over a longer period of time to compensate for the heat that has been lost through the floors, walls, and ceilings throughout the house.No need to be concerned if your thermostat has already been programmed: most programmable thermostats offer a HOLD option that you can use to halt the programming while maintaining the correct temperature for an indefinite amount of time.

When you return from your trip, just cancel the HOLD option on your thermostat’s programming menu to revert it to its usual programming mode.

WATER HEATER

You can keep the temperature of your water at 55 to 60 degrees all day long with a traditional storage-type water heater since maintaining the correct temperature requires less energy than continuously heating cold water.Switching off the water heater fully is only more cost-effective if you plan to leave it off for a few weeks or longer.If this is the best choice for you, consult your appliance’s user manual to learn about the procedures you need take if you are going to be gone for a long amount of time.Water heater using natural gas as a standard feature To put a conventional natural gas water heater (attached to a chimney) into ″vacation″ mode, all you have to do is turn the dial at the bottom of the appliance to VACATION (or whatever setting you like).In the case of a leak from the tank, you may also turn off the cold water supply to the water heater in order to reduce the amount of damage.

Perform a visual check of the appliance once you have returned from your vacation time.
Then turn on the cold water supply and turn the dial back to WARM, using the biggest square on the dial for this setting (see photo).
A natural gas water heater will typically take a little more than an hour to get the water in the tank up to the temperature that has been specified.
Water heater with a power vent If you have a power vented water heater, you may simply turn it to ″vacation″ mode to conserve energy.
If there is a leak from the tank, turn off the cold water supply to the water heater to keep the damage to a bare minimum.

Then just unplug the water heater from the mains.Perform a visual check of the appliance when you return from vacation, reopen the cold water supply to the water heater, and reconnect the appliance when you return from vacation.It will often take a little more than an hour to heat the water in the tank to the temperature that has been specified.

Water heater powered by electricity You should turn off the electricity and the cold water supply to your water heater if you have an electric water heater if you are going to be away for an extended length of time.In the case of a leak from the reservoir, you will conserve electricity while also limiting the amount of damage.Examine the appliance once again when you get home.Before re-connecting the water heater’s power supply, double-check that the cold water supply to the appliance is operational and that the tank is entirely filled.It should take between 4 and 5 hours to get the water in the reservoir back to the temperature that was programmed.

Track your bills

The transition to paperless billing has never been more convenient.Before you go for your trip, make sure that all of your suppliers have switched to paperless billing.In this way, you can keep track of all of your invoices and ensure that payments are made on time, no matter where you are.To gain access to the Gazifère paperless billing portal, please visit this link.For information on how to do routine maintenance on your natural gas appliances, please see this page.

Other energy-saving suggestions for the house may be found by visiting this page.

What is vacation mode?

Skip to the main content Vacation setting is available on new water heaters with the use of a temperature control labeled ″VAC.″ It is necessary to activate this function when the homeowner will be away from home for an extended length of time and hot water will not be required.When you’re ready to leave for vacation, simply turn this dial to the VAC position.This mode will cool the water down to 50°F and will utilize the most energy-efficient heating mode while the heater is not in use, allowing you to save money on your energy bills.One day before the scheduled return, the unit will automatically restart heating in order to ensure that hot water is always accessible.If your thermostat does not have this type of setting, you may just crank it down to the lowest possible level.

Depending on the type of water heater you have, you may be able to totally switch off the water heater.
Electric water heaters are easy to troubleshoot since they can simply be turned off at the breaker or fuse in the service panel.
Because of the risk of frozen pipes, it is not possible to switch off your furnace fully during the winter.
It is possible to reduce your thermostat to a temperature no lower than 50 degrees F.
Additionally, shutting off the water heater fully may imply that you will need to relight the pilot light when you get home from work.

If you do not have any difficulties doing so, you might opt to switch off your computer altogether.

More Energy Saving Tips

Setting the water heater to ″vacation mode″ is not the only technique to save money on your utility bills. There are a variety of techniques to conserve energy when using our water heater. Here are some suggestions: Set the temperature of the water heater to 120 degrees Fahrenheit. It is more feasible and safe to lower the temperature to this level. Using this temperature, enough hot water will be produced to provide every family. Despite the fact that a dishwasher requires 140 degrees, a water booster may accomplish this task. Nowadays, dishwashers are equipped with a built-in temperature booster. Do the routine maintenance, which is something your family may think about doing. Every water heater requires regular maintenance in order to operate efficiently. A water heater that is energy efficient will save you money.

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Should You Put Your Water Heater In Vacation Mode?

If you expect to be away from your home for a few days or longer, you might want to consider turning your water heater into vacation mode. The ability to switch into holiday mode might be useful whether you’re traveling on a short work trip or a prolonged vacation.

Reduce your energy expenses
save your energy resources (fuel)
and
Prevent frozen pipes and burst pipes from occurring.
Increase the longevity of your water heater

What is Water Heater Vacation Mode?

The vacation mode option on your water heater enables you to quickly and simply adjust the temperature of the water coming out of it.When you leave home for an extended amount of time during the winter, when additional difficulties might arise, this can be very beneficial.The pilot light remains on, but it is no longer capable of heating the water to its maximum temperature.Consider the following scenario: you wish to travel for a week during the winter months.If you don’t utilize your vacation mode, your water heater will continue to consume the same amount of energy resources to heat your water as it did before you turned it on.

It goes without saying that this increases your heating expense needlessly, which is not good for either your money or the environment.

Pros & Cons of Your Water Heater in Vacation Mode

There’s no denying that switching your water to vacation mode might be beneficial. However, there are certain disadvantages that you should be aware of. Let’s take them one by one.

Pros

Utilizing the water heater’s vacation mode option is simple and straightforward.
It is an ecologically responsible option that reduces the amount of gasoline and energy wasted.
The cost of maintaining water in your tank at full temperature while no one is home to use it will be modest (depending on how long you are gone), and you will not be responsible for it.
It can extend the life of your water heater by reducing the amount of energy it must expend to heat water to a temperature that is not required

Cons

During vacation mode, the water temperature in your hot water heater drops to a lukewarm level, making it less effective. This has the potential to generate an environment conducive to the growth of germs. When you return, you may notice a strange odor in your water until the bacteria is eliminated by restoring the heat to its regular temperature or by applying bleach
however, this is temporary.
A water heater may not be available if you live in a multi-unit housing complex where the water supply is shared by all of the residents. The simplest solution in this situation is to turn off the water shut-off valves that are positioned near every fixture (such as beneath your toilet, under your kitchen faucet, and so on)

A Sure-Fire Alternative to Vacation Mode

Let’s suppose the disadvantages exceed the advantages. Here’s a terrific alternative: simply turn off the water supply to your house from outside. This will eliminate the following two potential issues: a)

The buildup of water pressure (especially from freezing water). Eventually, the frozen water expands to the point where the pipe breaks open completely. After that, all of the water drains away
undiscovered water leaks that build and cause harm while you’re away While a leak that occurs while you are at home may go undetected for a day or two, a leak that occurs when no one is home might do significant damage since no one is around to stop it. The amount of time that elapses between the time a leak starts and the time it is detected has a direct influence on the severity (and expense) of water damage.

It is common for the main water line shutdown valve to be positioned inside your home.As a result, it will most likely be on a wall that is nearest to the street, as this is where your water supply is connected.First, look for cracks in a lower wall, such as one in your basement, behind a water heater, or in the laundry room.If you have a whole-house water softener, it may also be in close proximity to that unit.In places where the temperature is consistently high, the main water shutdown valve will be located near an exterior wall.

What Else Can You Do?

Although the purpose of taking a vacation is to get away from everyday life for a bit, if you do not take certain precautions ahead of time, you may be in for a rude surprise when you return. Other than shutting down a mainline (such as the main sewer line) or placing your water heater on vacation mode, there are several steps you may take to avoid flooding: Adjust your thermostat to 65 degrees Fahrenheit throughout the colder months of the year. Keep in mind that the areas between pipes are significantly colder than the temperature you have set on your thermostat. If you drop the temperature below 65 degrees, you run the danger of your pipes freezing and exploding.
Before leaving, check for any leaks that may have occurred.
Ask a neighbor or a relative you trust to check on your house every few days (they can also take care of your mail and place it inside your home)
If you don’t already have one, you should think about getting one to protect your home. Ensure that all batteries are fully charged and the gadget is set to ″away mode″ before leaving the house. For additional information on this option, speak with your plumber.
Pour a pail of water into the sump pit to ensure that your sump pump is operational before you leave town. If the pump does not activate, a plumber should be contacted. If you want to know if your sump pump is functioning properly, check out this post.

Final Thoughts

Putting your water heater into vacation mode is a simple, yet sometimes overlooked, step in safeguarding your house from potential disaster. Even a little leak, if left unchecked for several days, can cause significant water damage to the home. The amount of time that elapses between the time that a leak starts and the time that it is detected has a direct influence on the severity and cost of any following water damage. However, it is not required. Consider the advantages and disadvantages listed above and decide for yourself if it is preferable to just cut off the main water line supply valve. Remember to turn on the water when you arrive home, since this may be a more appropriate remedy for your particular scenario. What can I do to keep my home’s plumbing system safe?
A straightforward explanation of the components of a water heater
How to relight the pilot light on your water heater (this applies to every major brand! )
How to repair a thermocouple (on your water heater) and why you should do so
A tutorial on troubleshooting gas water heaters is provided.
Changing the thermostat on a water heater
Instructions on how to replace the heating element in an electric water heater
Maintenance and troubleshooting for your water heater
How to inspect and test the T&P valve on your water heater
Drain valve replacement for a water heater.
When the water is rusty or stinky, how to change the anode rod.
What is the average lifespan of a water heater? Water heater repairs

Call 1-Tom-Plumber for More Help

If you need assistance with your water heater, please do not hesitate to contact us here or call 1-Tom-Plumber (1-866-758-6237) for assistance. No matter how urgent the situation, we will respond swiftly to tackle any plumbing or drain problem, as well as the excavation of underground water mains and sewage main lines.

This is what ‘vacation mode’ means for you and your hot water heater

Every now and again, we all require the simple joys of a holiday to recharge our batteries.When you put yourself in ‘holiday mode,’ you are attempting to unwind, calm your thoughts, and take a break from the regular pile of everyday pressures that you are subject to.Was it ever brought to your attention that your conventional hot water heater may be set to ″holiday mode″ while you are away enjoying the sights and sounds of a beach or cottage getaway?Let’s take a look at the vacation mode option and some of the things to keep in mind when utilizing it.

What is the vacation mode setting?

The majority of traditional, power-vented water heater units will offer an option referred to as ‘vacation mode.Using this setting will allow you to have precise control over the temperature of the water in your tank as well as when it will turn on and off at different times.Conventional water heaters generally maintain a temperature of 55 to 60 degrees Fahrenheit throughout the clock.Higher thermostat readings result in an increase in the amount of energy consumed by the unit.Energy consumption of the water heater is reduced when vacation mode is on.

It prevents the device from continuously heating the water while no one is at home to benefit from it.

What are some considerations around using vacation mode?

During the winter months, vacation mode on your hot water heater is a useful feature to have available.In the event that you totally switch off the heater in your unit, there is a chance that any remaining water will freeze inside the pipes.Using your heater’s plumbing while on vacation can also assist to minimize corrosion and buildup of materials inside the heater’s plumbing.If you are going to be away from your house for a long period of time, you should make advantage of this setting to keep your unit in good working order.Using the vacation mode setting on your computer can also assist to mitigate the consequences of a leak in your pipes.

Setting your power-vented water heater to vacation mode is a good method to get it ready before you leave on a trip.
After that, turn off the cold-water supply to prevent further damage in the case of a water leak.
Finally, you may turn off the water heater to make sure that everything is safe while you are gone from home.
When you return from your vacation, it is important to do a visual examination of the unit before turning everything back on.
There are distinct issues depending on whether you have a typical natural gas or electric hot water heater in your house, so make sure you speak with the professionals before making any decisions about this critical component of your home’s operation.

Our team here at Applewood Air is committed to assisting you and your family with your home comfort requirements.We realize how important hot water is to you and your family, and we are familiar with the complexities of keeping your hot water heater running properly all year long.Please get in touch with us if you want hot water heater installation or service.

We will ensure that your device is operating at peak performance and can provide you with customized assistance on how to best utilize the holiday mode option while you are attempting to rest, unwind, and enjoy your very own vacation!

How to Set Your Water Heater to Vacation Mode and Turn It Back

Water heating systems consume a significant amount of energy to run.As a result, an increasing number of environmentally aware people (as well as those who just want to cut their utility bills) are learning how to set their water heaters into ″vacation mode″ with the goal of conserving energy and saving money.So, what exactly is vacation mode, and where do you go to locate it on your computer or smartphone?

Water Heater Vacation Mode: What Is It?

In your water heater system, there is an option called vacation mode that allows you to run your boiler at lower temperatures than usual, therefore conserving energy.In most cases, manufacturers set vacation mode at 50° F, which is far lower than the temperature required to heat your house, but high enough to keep any water from freezing while you’re gone.Certain systems will not require you to make any changes to the manufacturer’s settings.It is possible to regulate the temperature of the water by turning a dial.Whatever method you select, the aim is to lower the activity of your water heater, reduce energy consumption, and lower your costs while also preventing your pipes from freezing and causing damage.

Where Do You Find Vacation Mode And How Do You Use It?

There are a variety of techniques available from water heater manufacturers for putting your unit into vacation mode, the most prominent of which is a particular setting on the thermostat itself.To check if your thermostat has a vacation mode, go to the settings menu and scroll through the options.If it does, all you have to do is choose it, and the system will take care of the rest.If your thermostat does not have a vacation mode that is expressly stated on it, you may manually accomplish the same result as a vacation mode by setting the temperature to ″Pilot″ mode and leaving it there until you return.

Why You Should Put Your Water Heater In Vacation Mode

It is primarily for financial reasons that you should put your water heater into vacation mode.You have no need to heat water to 120 degrees if you are not going to be in the house to utilize it.It is a waste of energy that results in an increase in your utility costs.The other reason is to keep freezing water from causing damage to your pipes during lengthy periods of extremely cold weather.If you forget to switch off your water heating system while you’re gone and the water freezes into ice, you face the danger of cracks in your pipes, damage to your plumbing, and perhaps the need to replace your entire system.

As the ice grows, it causes damage to the pipe surrounding it, which results in leaks when the ice eventually thaws.
Then, when you switch your system back on, it doesn’t work anymore, and you frequently end up with flooding in your house as a result of this failure.
Setting the system to ″Vacation″ or ″Pilot″ mode will save you money on electricity while also protecting your water heater from harm.
In order to avoid substantial harm to your system, a compromise must be made between utilizing no electricity at all and using a little amount of heat to keep it running.
As you can see, the vacation mode function of your water heater is a critical feature to have.

Even if your thermostat doesn’t have a dedicated vacation mode, you can still lower the temperature to keep your house safe while you’re gone on vacation.If you require more assistance with your water heater, you should consult with a professional to ensure that you receive the water heater services you require to restore your system to working condition.

Adjusting Your Water Heater Settings: How To Maximize Efficiency

Not many people are aware that selecting the proper water heater settings may result in substantial savings.Indeed, while the majority of people don’t give their hot water heater settings a second thought, they are actually highly critical in many situations.Not only will it save you money, but it will also make your showering experience more pleasant as a result of it.Here is a breakdown of the procedures.

Default Hot Water Heater Settings Can Vary

Water heaters in Phoenix are frequently shipped with preset temperature settings that are as high as 140 degrees Fahrenheit or more.That is far greater than the majority of individuals require, although manufacturers do so for a variety of reasons.For starters, germs cannot thrive in water that hot, according to the Department of Energy.Increased gas or electric water heater settings can be beneficial for people who have weakened immune systems or respiratory illnesses.In addition to impressing consumers who have presumably recently replaced their tank since the previous one had ceased performing correctly, high temperatures can also be beneficial.

Once this psychological trick wears off (and assuming you don’t have a sickness that makes you particularly susceptible to bacteria), you’ll likely receive far more joy from saving money on your water bill, which we’ll teach you how to achieve in the next section.

How Much Are Your Gas and Electric Hot Water Heater Temperature Settings Costing You?

As a general rule, every 20 degrees you reduce the temperature of your gas or electric water heater, you may expect to save as much as ten percent on your utility bill.That’s not too shabby after all!In reality, it adds up over time, and you can almost certainly come up with a number of better uses for the money you save.″But hold on a minute,″ you may be thinking.″I really enjoy taking hot baths!″ However, you almost probably do not take showers above 140 degrees Fahrenheit, which can cause scorching because of the high temperature.

It’s conceivable that you won’t even notice a difference.
No matter what happens, raising the temperature is a simple process.
It has also been known to cause aged hot water heaters to stop functioning.

How To Adjust Your Gas and Electric Hot Water Heater Temperature Settings

Now that you understand why you should reduce the temperature of your water heater, let’s have a look at how to go about doing so effectively.

Step One: Get An Accurate Temperature Reading

It’s likely that the thermostat dial linked to your water heater tank is not functioning properly.As a result, you should really use a thermometer to monitor the temperature of the water flowing out of your faucet.The Department of Energy suggests that you measure the amount of water that is flowing out of the faucet that is the furthest away from your water heating system.Make a note of the settings after you’ve found them.

Step Two: Figure Out Where to Make the Adjustment

There are several distinct types of water heaters, and we’ll go through each of them separately.

Electric Water Heater Settings

In the case of an electric water heater, you must modify the hot water settings at the top and bottom of the unit. Both controls, which are often concealed behind a panel and consist of knobs that you crank to establish the appropriate electric water heater thermostat settings, are typically located on the same side of the panel.

Gas Water Heater Settings

Newer gas water heaters are equipped with temperature controls that are similar to those described above in the section on electric water heaters. Most gas heaters, especially older models, feature a temperature knob near the base that may be easily adjusted to the appropriate temperature.

Tankless Water Heater Settings

Finally, tankless water heaters are available.This is likely the simplest modification to make because most thermostats include an LED screen that allows you to directly control the thermostat’s temperature.In addition to being convenient, these systems frequently allow you to modify the tankless water heater settings more accurately than you could with traditional dial-based adjustment methods.

Step Three: Make The Adjustments

If you have an electric unit, make sure to turn off the electricity to it before modifying the hot water heater settings at the top and bottom, as we previously discussed in detail.This may be accomplished simply turning off the necessary settings on your circuit breaker panel.Doing so is also recommended in the case of a gas water heater that consumes some power (as some newer units do).But hold on a minute!What temperature should you choose as a starting point?

The Department of Energy suggests that you set your heater to 120 degrees Fahrenheit for the best performance.
That should be sufficient heat for the majority of applications in your house.
Some water heater temperature controls now include buttons that read ″A-B-C″ instead of numbers, which makes them easier to use.
Generally speaking, A denotes 120 degrees, B denotes 130 degrees, and C denotes 140 degrees, respectively.
To double-check these settings, consult the owner’s handbook for your water heater.

Step Four: Tweak the Settings as Necessary

After you’ve made the necessary adjustments to your gas or electric water heater thermostat settings, you may discover that you need to make a few more adjustments to get the best setting. You’re trying to strike the perfect balance between comfort and cost-effectiveness. If that’s more than 120 degrees Fahrenheit for you, there’s nothing wrong with that. Make the necessary adjustments!

Frequently Asked Questions

Is 150 Too Hot For A Water Heater?

It is nearly guaranteed that a temperature setting of 150 degrees will be too hot for your water heater. The likelihood of experiencing scalding is quite high at that temperature. You should be concerned about your youngsters, who may experiment with the temperature settings on the faucets while completely unconscious of the risk and end up scorching themselves.

What Is The Maximum Temperature For A Water Heater?

The highest temperature setting for the majority of water heaters is 150 degrees Fahrenheit.

Is 140 Too Hot For A Water Heater?

Yes, temperatures above 140 degrees Fahrenheit are uncomfortable for the majority of people.The only exception would be persons who require an additional layer of protection against germs, which cannot thrive in water at that temperature.However, because such a state does not protect you from scorching, you will almost certainly need to install an equipment at the showerhead that cools the water before it is discharged from the showerhead.

Why Is My Water So Hot?

If you haven’t changed the settings on your hot water heater in a long time, they are most likely still set to the factory default of 140 degrees. The latter is especially true if your hot water heater was only recently installed; the old one was almost certainly altered at some time over the years, whereas the new one is set to the manufacturer’s recommended settings.

Shutting Off Water Before Going on Vacation

Skip to the main content Before leaving on vacation, turn off the water supply.Affected by water damage in the home’s water shutoff valve What if you returned home from a peaceful vacation only to discover a strange odor when you opened the front door?Your stomach sinks as you smell mildew, which smells like an old cellar, and then you realize you have thousands upon thousands of dollars worth of damage to your home as a result of the flood that occurred in your home.The source of the problem is a leak that burst and caused hundreds of gallons of water to flood your home for several days straight.Everything on the outside appears to be normal; there are no alarms, no smoke, and the security alarm did not even sound, but on the inside, there is a world of devastation that has wiped out everything that comes into contact with the floor.

What if all that happened could have been avoided?
That is precisely the purpose of this post.

The Importance of Shutting Off Your Main Water Valve

Many reasons exist for you to secure your house by turning off the main water valve.Here are some of them.Read on to learn more about the advantages we’ve compiled for you in the section below.1.Preventing the possibility of damage The level of damage produced by water is perhaps the most severe sort of damage that a property can sustain, according to experts.

Once mildew has permeated everything in your home for a few days, it’s probable that practically anything that is porous in nature (wood, fabrics, electronics, and so on) will be ruined completely.
In essence, the potential financial consequences of the damage might be significant.
2.
Exorbitant costs and a significant loss of time Although you may be covered by insurance, I can assure you that you will still be out of money until your goods have been dried and cleaned (and maybe replaced if required) (most likely).
The insulation of your electrical wire can be harmed as well since it can act as a sponge, soaking up the moisture and causing corrosion.

No matter what you do, you will never be able to recoup the whole amount of your expenses.One of the negative aspects you’ll notice is that many insurance firms are in ″cost reduction″ mode all of the time.It might take many months before you see any money, and it will almost always be less than you expect it to be worth.

There’s even a line of business that can negotiate the settlement on your behalf in exchange for a part of the payout.Some insurance plans may even be worthless if you fail to turn off your water supply while away from home for more than a predetermined number of days.Check your policies to be sure you’re not missing anything.The majority of homeowners’ insurance plans are written on the assumption that the house is occupied on a daily basis.If no one is around to keep an eye on things, the insurance coverage may be rendered worthless.In such cases, you may want to review the fine print to see what will happen and, if necessary, make changes to your policy.

For individuals who do not have health insurance at all, the expense might have a significant impact on their quality of life.Third, the entire family suffers from the distressing stress.It is possible that house owners may have to seek rental accommodations while their insurance examination and check are being processed.This increases the prices as well as causing a significant deal of trouble.There’s also the emotional strain of witnessing family heirlooms, collectibles, and picture albums all succumb to the effects of water and mildew on their surfaces.

Nothing can prepare you for the horrible sensation that every family experiences.The occurrence of these types of floods is not uncommon.While it comes to North Carolina’s unpredictable weather, turning off your water when you are away for any amount of time should not even be on the table for consideration.And when it comes to planning a lengthy holiday, one can never be too cautious.

This is especially true given how simple it is to turn off your water supply.
It has the potential to save you a significant amount of money, valuable time, worry, and significant inconvenience.
Damage Caused by Water

How to Carefully Turn Off and Back On Your Water

The most difficult element of shutting down your water supply is remembering to do it in the first place. If you take a camper to the beach a couple of times a year, it could be a good idea to leave the keys with a piece of paper that says ″turn off the water.″ Small reminders can be accomplished in a variety of ways. Consequently, use these procedures to locate your primary valve: A few frequent locations where your water valve might be found in your home are listed below. In your basement or crawlspace
outside your home
between a wellhouse and a city water meter
in a utility room
or any other location you want.

Once the valve has been located and the handle has been turned to the on position, the valve will be in line with the pipe.In addition, the handle will be perpendicular in the off position.Once you have turned off the water, you will be able to turn on any faucet in your home, and you should see that the water pressure is gradually decreasing until there is no more water.Water will typically flow for around 10 seconds due to the pressure in the pipe.This shut off should be tested before you leave the house in order to confirm that it is in proper functioning order and that you have the correct shut off valve in place.

Remember that you’ll want to be careful while re-opening the valve to avoid damaging it.
When you turn the valve back on, you’ll want to go gently so that the water doesn’t rush back in and create excessive pressure in your line.
As a general guideline, you’ll want to count backwards from 20 as you carefully move the handle.

Should You Also Turn Off Your Water Heater?

When you go on vacation, it’s advisable to switch off your water heater as well as the rest of your appliances. The fact that you turned off the heat source (gas or electric) while you were away will not harm your water heater in any way. This will save you money on electricity (gas), as well as potential harm if it spills.

In Conclusion: Turn The Water Off If Gone More Than 24 Hrs

Nobody anticipates a flood in their house as a result of a faulty plumbing system.However, these sorts of tragedies may and do occur – and when they do, you aren’t aware of the extent of the devastation until after it has occurred.When you’re intending to be away from home for more than 24 hours, don’t forget to switch off the main water supply to your house.Even for weekend getaways, it’s a good idea to pack light.If you experience a typical plumbing malfunction, this is the most effective method of preventing significant water leaks and damage.

South End Plumbing provides a wide range of plumbing services, so keep in mind that we are only a click away.
We also specialize in leak detection – just give us a call for more information!
South End Plumbing is one of the few organizations that will provide you with a no-obligation quote.
To arrange an appointment, please call us at 704-919-1722 or complete the online form.

What’s The Best Water Heater Temperature Setting?

A hot shower may receive a bad name from your dermatologist since it might dry up your skin, but many people like it for its relaxing properties! In a household where hot water is fiercely competed for among family members, or even between your washing machine and dishwasher, you may be tempted to raise the temperature of your hot water heater. But at what point does it become too hot? There are differences of opinion between the Department of Energy and the industry. Scalding can occur at temperatures below 120 degrees Fahrenheit, although 140 degrees Fahrenheit is the normal default temperature. Any temperature below 120 degrees Fahrenheit, according to the majority of experts, increases the likelihood that germs from stagnant water, such as the bacterium legionella, which causes Legionnaire’s disease, would form within your water heater. Whatever temperature setting you choose, it’s vital to remember that the kind of pipe used, how the water is heated (gas or electric), and whether your system is tanked or tankless have no effect on the temperature you choose. There are, however, a number of elements to take into consideration when determining your thermostat setting: Stick with 120°F if you have small children and/or the elderly in your house who are prone to third-degree burns in seconds, or if you are a single occupant owing to the decreased demand for hot water in your home.
Consider 140°F if you have an immunocompromised individual in your home, a dishwasher that does not pre-heat, or a multi-occupant household owing to the increased need for hot water.

But what about the expenses of energy?We get what you’re saying!Water heaters account for around 14-18 percent of the total energy consumed by a residence on a typical day.Furthermore, it may be tempting to lower the temperature in order to save money.It should be noted that a 10°F decrease in temperature is related with a 3-5 percent reduction in energy use.

Legionella, on the other hand, can live at temperatures as high as 122°F.
So make sure to strike a balance between your risk tolerance and your energy consumption targets!
If you’re still on the fence, play around with it.
Many hot water heaters are equipped with a temperature control dial.
If yours does not, run the water for a few minutes and use a thermometer to check the temperature of the water thereafter.

Start with 120°F and gradually increase the temperature in small increments until you get your desired result.All things considered, it is possible that your house is not as simple as ″simply″ setting a temperature and forgetting about it.A water tank booster may be an appropriate option in houses where the requirement to maintain a greater hot water temperature for health safety must be balanced with the need to reduce the danger of scorching.

To inhibit pathogens from growing in your tank, it retains the temperature at 140°F while mixing with cold water to provide a lower temperature at the faucet.Alternatively, you could live in a house where, no matter what temperature you select, hot water takes an inordinate amount of time to reach the faucet (or a certain tap farthest from the hot water heater).A hot water circulating system circulates hot water gently through the pipes so that you are not forced to wait.Whatever you choose, we’re only a phone call away if you’re having issues with your hot water!

4 Thermostat Tips While You’re on Vacation

Are you preparing for a vacation? While you’re gone, we recommend that you use a programmable or smart thermostat to keep your home comfortable. Here are the advantages and disadvantages of each type of thermostat, as well as our four choices for use while on vacation. Thermostats that can be programmed Temperature settings are controlled by a dial on older thermostat models, but temperature settings on programmable thermostats are controlled by touching the screen on the huge digital display to choose the temperature you desire. Using a programmable thermostat is an excellent method to save money on your energy bills. Consider the following scenario: why would you leave the air conditioner running all day to keep an empty house cool when you are out of town? Installing a programmable thermostat can help you save money on your energy costs by setting it to automatically regulate the temperature and operate at the lowest possible level while you are gone. When departing for a trip, you won’t have to worry about remembering to adjust the temperature, and you can program the system to switch back on and warm up or cool down the house right before your return. Thermostats with built-in intelligence When compared to a traditional thermostat, a ″smart″ thermostat is capable of learning what temperatures your family prefers for your house based on your habits and can automatically change to those temperatures depending on which room you are in. As an added bonus, it can automatically switch off when you leave a room or the house, saving you money. Additionally, it can display real-time energy use and how much you’re spending. Because a smart thermostat is managed by Wi-Fi, you can make adjustments to the temperature settings in your house from anywhere in the world, even while you are away from home. Perhaps you forgot to turn off the heat or air conditioning before leaving on vacation, or perhaps you want to put them back on before returning. You have the ability to make it happen using your smartphone, tablet, or computer. Smart thermostats help your HVAC system function more effectively while also saving you money, which are both excellent uses of technology. Smart thermostats, on the other hand, while offering more functionality than programmable thermostats, are often more expensive to acquire. Consider the advantages and disadvantages of programmable and smart thermostats, and then choose the one that best suits your and your family’s routines and requirements. Check out this article from the United States Department of Energy for more more information about thermostats. Recommendations for a Vacation Don’t forget to follow these recommendations before departing on your trip to ensure that your HVAC system is in good working order while you’re away. Do not switch off your heating and cooling system completely. While you’re gone, you should keep your system running at a low level to avoid excessive dampness or cold in your house. For trips taking place throughout the warmer months of the year, raise the temperature on your thermostat while you’re away (no higher than 85 degrees). If you’re traveling during a colder season, reduce the thermostat setting to accommodate the lower temperature (no lower than 50 degrees). It goes without saying that if you have dogs or anybody else living in your home while you are away, you will need to adjust the thermostat accordingly
All of your windows’ window coverings (blinds and curtains) should be closed. It helps to keep the hot or cold temperatures outside from impacting your area and forcing your HVAC system to work more than necessary.
Before going on vacation, replace your air filter to prevent the heating and air conditioning system from operating at a higher efficiency than it should while you’re away, from circulating unclean air throughout your home, and from experiencing any problems while you’re away.
To guarantee that your heating and air conditioning system is operating correctly and effectively before you depart for your trip, schedule an appointment.

If you have any questions about your thermostat or would want to make an HVAC maintenance appointment before your trip, call Stiles Heating, Cooling, & Plumbing.Our HVAC contractors can install a programmable or smart thermostat for you, provide you with tips on how the thermostat works, make recommendations for the best settings, and, if applicable, demonstrate how to adjust the thermostat remotely using your smartphone, tablet, or computer.Contact us today to schedule an appointment.

Setting your water heater’s temperature for best results

Time required for reading: 2 minutes It’s possible that you don’t give your water heater much thought, but it actually plays a very crucial role in the plumbing of your home.In addition to higher power expenses, a malfunctioning water heater might result in water that is either scorching hot or ice cold.It is critical to plan annual maintenance to verify that your device is clean (hard water build-up can be detrimental to your water heater) and that the temperature range is within acceptable parameters.Save money, extend the life of your water heater, and safeguard the health and well-being of you and your family by following these simple guidelines.Set your water heater to the optimal temperature, which is between 130 and 140 degrees Fahrenheit, according to industry professionals.

If you go much higher or any lower than this, it might be harmful for you and your family.
While increasing the temperature over the suggested setting might result in burns, decreasing the temperature below the recommended level can also be hazardous.
Bacteria can grow in the water heater tank when the water is cooler than the ambient temperature.
This might become a health danger for you and your family, putting you and your loved ones at risk of contracting diseases such as Legionnaires’ illness.
This condition is a sort of pneumonia, and the bacteria that causes it may grow in a water tank with temperatures ranging between 77 degrees and 113 degrees Fahrenheit, depending on the temperature.

Check the temperature of your water heater.You should contact a plumber if you are concerned that your water heater is set at an inappropriate temperature — either too high or too low — since they will be able to simply verify the setting with a specific thermometer and make any adjustments that may be necessary.The presence of sediment accumulation and calcification in the hot water tank itself will also be checked by a professional if the temperature on the water tank has been changed but you are still experiencing the same water temperature as you were before the temperature adjustment.

If you hear hissing or sizzling noises in the tank, this is another indicator that sediment has accumulated.After draining the tank, a professional can attempt to address the problem by scraping off any scale that may have built up over time and soaking the components in hot water.Water heaters have a rather long life expectancy.The average lifespan of a hot water heater is predicted to be between 8 and 12 years.It is recommended that if you have a water heater that is 10 years or older and looks to be leaking or having some problems operating, that you consider replacing it rather than simply performing a repair that will only temporarily cure the problem.Water heaters require regular maintenance.

Maintaining your water heater on a regular basis, like you would any other equipment, may go a long way toward prolonging the life of your water heater and maintaining it in excellent operating condition.If you want to ensure that your water heater continues to function effectively, you may want to consider hiring a professional to perform this maintenance.Maintaining your water heater’s temperature between the appropriate ranges is essential.This will prevent any bacteria from growing in the cold water and will protect you from being scalded by a shower that is much hotter than you anticipated.

What Is The BEST Water Heater Temperature Setting?

Please keep in mind that this content may contain affiliate links.This means that, at no additional cost to you, we may gain a small profit on purchases made via our links.In the event that you have already adjusted the temperature and are complaining to yourself that you ″have no hot water″ or ″don’t have enough hot water,″ there are a few reasons that might be impacting the heat.If all else fails, it’s possible that the heating element is faulty and has to be replaced.

How To Check Your Water Heater Temperature

The majority of water heaters do not have a temperature gauge with a digital readout on them.A temperature or heating range is marked on the thermostat, rather than a number.A cup and a culinary thermometer will be required in order to correctly determine the temperature of the hot water heater.If you haven’t used your water heater in at least one hour, turn on the faucet that is nearest to it.Allow the water to run for at least one minute to ensure that the water is at its warmest possible temperature before filling the cup with it.

Insert your cooking thermometer and make any necessary adjustments to the temperature settings.

Recommended Temperature Settings

Water heaters are pre-programmed to operate at temperatures about 140 degrees Fahrenheit, which is recommended by OSHA.The Environmental Protection Agency, on the other hand, recommends lowering the thermostat down to 120 degrees Fahrenheit to save power use and using a booster heater to attain sanitizing temperatures at certain outlets.Another point of view is that lower temperatures are preferable for homes with little children, although higher temperatures are more effective in cleaning and sanitizing surfaces.Recommendation from me Personally, I feel that the temperature of a water heater should be set around 130 degrees in practically all circumstances.However, the temperature is low enough to avoid scorching while being high enough to destroy hazardous microorganisms.

How To Turn Up Your Water Heater

If you are dissatisfied with the suggested temperature of your hot water heater, you may alter the settings to receive extra hot water.Although electric water heaters may require a screwdriver and potentially a tiny wrench or socket, most hot water heater settings are straightforward to modify.Keep in mind that the thermostat is factory configured to a recommended temperature, and that altering the setting may increase the risk of significant burns from the appliance.

How to Set Temperature on a Gas Water Heater

The temperature of a gas water heater may be adjusted by turning the setting knob on the water heater. The majority of gas control valves have a knob with different designations on them, such as A-B-C. Control valves for gas water heaters may be labeled differently depending on the manufacturer. In the majority of circumstances, the following is what each label indicates: Temperatures range from 80-90 degrees
hot (or triangle sign) = 120 degrees
A = 130 degrees
B = 140 degrees
C = 150 degrees
Very Hot = 160 degrees

There is a ″Vacation″ setting that appears from time to time. This does not heat the water, but it does ensure that the pilot light remains lit.

How to Set Temperature on an Electric Water Heater

Turn off the circuit breaker if necessary. Remove the access panels from the room. Under the insulation, look for the thermostat adjustment screwhole. Adjust the thermostat control to the appropriate temperature by using a straight screwdriver to make the adjustment. After replacing the insulation and panels, the power should be restored. Here’s a good video that demonstrates the procedure:

Factors That Affect Water Temperature

Some of the things that may influence the temperature of your hot water include the distance between the water heater and the outlet, the way the pipes are built, and the quality of the heating element itself, among others.Because of the length of the pipe and the small bore size, it will take longer for the hot water to reach the opening.Additionally, pipes that run beneath or outside the residence may be exposed to freezing or freezing temperatures in the winter and summer.If you have a big house, you may want to consider installing a hot water recirculation system, which may reduce the amount of time it takes to send hot water to all of the outlets in the house, as well as provide significant cost savings over time.If setting the thermostat does not result in the desired temperature, it is possible that the water heater element has to be replaced.

Alternatively, if you don’t notice a difference in water temperature after changing the thermostat, it’s likely that you have a malfunctioning thermostat that has to be replaced.

Your Biggest Plumbing Mistake

In Ann Arbor, we are frequently asked to deal with plumbing emergencies on short notice.Breaking pipes causes sewage backup, toilet overflowing, and sump pumps to fail to function properly.All of these conditions may cause significant damage to a property, and most of the time, a tiny amount of preventive might prevent them from occurring.Despite the fact that we think that prevention may help you avoid the majority of home plumbing crises, we feel that the most important error you can make is not being prepared for when such emergencies occur.What is the most common plumbing error made by homeowners?

Not knowing where the main water shut off valve is or how to utilize it.

Your Home’s Main Water Shut Off

The primary shut-off valve for your home is often found in the basement or crawl space, depending on where you live.It may sometimes be spotted along the side of a garage wall or even under the kitchen sink.When the valve is turned off, all water flowing into your home is stopped.It goes without saying that, in the event of a pipe rupture, understanding how to switch off the water supply becomes important information.

Using the Main Water Shut Off Valve

Once you’ve located the main water shutoff valve, you’ll need to know how to operate it.A ball valve or a gate valve is used in the majority of shut off valves.In most cases, you won’t need any special tools to turn it off.To turn off a gate valve, you will need to spin the handle, or wheel, numerous times in the clockwise direction.Due to a lack of use, gate valves may become increasingly difficult to turn over time.

We recommend that you use the gate valve twice a year to ensure that it continues to spin freely.
A ball valve has a handle that allows you to turn it on and off.
The valve is open when the handle is aligned with the pipe on the other side.

The handle should be at a right angle to the pipe when you are ready to close it.As soon as you turn off the main water valve, turn on a tub or sink faucet to the highest setting, for both hot and cold connections, immediately afterward.This releases pressure in the plumbing pipes and also guarantees that the system is completely turned off.

Continue to open faucets around the house in order to drain the water out of the house.
The main water valve will need to be turned back on when the plumbing problem has been resolved.
One faucet should be left running at its maximum setting.
All of the other faucets in the house should be turned off.
Then, gently and partially (about one-half of the way to full), open the valve.

Keep an eye out for the ″noise″ to subside, which indicates that the water pressure has been equalized.
Once the noise has stopped, completely open the main valve and then turn on all of the faucets in your home one at a time to confirm that the water is flowing correctly throughout your home.

When to Use Your Main Water Shut Off Valve

Water shutoff valves are commonly used in two instances by homeowners: while doing significant plumbing repairs and when dealing with busted pipes or other water crises.Repairs may generally be completed by turning off the water to a specific area, but it is occasionally necessary to turn off the water to the entire house.Burst pipes in the home must be dealt with as soon as they are discovered and repaired.If a homeowner does not know where the shut off valve is located or how to operate it, he or she may be forced to wait vital minutes or even hours for a plumber to come.Meanwhile, liters of water flood upon your walls, floors, furniture, electronics and other belongings while you wait for the water to stop pouring.

It is possible that knowing how to turn off the water to your home may save you thousands of dollars in repair and replacement expenses since it will stop the flow of water instantly, preventing any more damage to your property from occurring.

Teach Your Family to Use the Valve

Having learned how to utilize the main water shut off valve, we propose that you pass this knowledge on to the other members of your family.How do you deal with a burst pipe when you aren’t at home, but your husband and children are there?It is more likely that your family will be prepared to utilize the valve if you teach them how to do so.Learn how to operate the main water shut off valve from anybody else who lives in the house

Should You Turn Off Your Water Heater When on Vacation?

Turning Off Your Water Heater Does Not Provide Significant Energy Savings

Shutting Off Your Water Heater Can Cause Problems

Should You Turn Off Your Water Heater When Not in Use?

A Few Suggestions Before You Go On Vacation – Water Heater, Programmable Thermostat – Gazifère

HEATING

WATER HEATER

Track your bills

What is vacation mode?

More Energy Saving Tips

Should You Put Your Water Heater In Vacation Mode?

What is Water Heater Vacation Mode?

Pros & Cons of Your Water Heater in Vacation Mode

Pros

Cons

A Sure-Fire Alternative to Vacation Mode

What Else Can You Do?

Final Thoughts

Call 1-Tom-Plumber for More Help

This is what ‘vacation mode’ means for you and your hot water heater

What is the vacation mode setting?

What are some considerations around using vacation mode?

How to Set Your Water Heater to Vacation Mode and Turn It Back

Water Heater Vacation Mode: What Is It?

Where Do You Find Vacation Mode And How Do You Use It?

Why You Should Put Your Water Heater In Vacation Mode

Adjusting Your Water Heater Settings: How To Maximize Efficiency

Default Hot Water Heater Settings Can Vary

How Much Are Your Gas and Electric Hot Water Heater Temperature Settings Costing You?

How To Adjust Your Gas and Electric Hot Water Heater Temperature Settings

Step One: Get An Accurate Temperature Reading

Step Two: Figure Out Where to Make the Adjustment

Electric Water Heater Settings

Gas Water Heater Settings

Tankless Water Heater Settings

Step Three: Make The Adjustments

Step Four: Tweak the Settings as Necessary

Frequently Asked Questions

Is 150 Too Hot For A Water Heater?

What Is The Maximum Temperature For A Water Heater?

Is 140 Too Hot For A Water Heater?

Why Is My Water So Hot?

Shutting Off Water Before Going on Vacation

The Importance of Shutting Off Your Main Water Valve

How to Carefully Turn Off and Back On Your Water

Should You Also Turn Off Your Water Heater?

In Conclusion: Turn The Water Off If Gone More Than 24 Hrs

What’s The Best Water Heater Temperature Setting?

4 Thermostat Tips While You’re on Vacation

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Recommended Temperature Settings

How To Turn Up Your Water Heater

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Your Biggest Plumbing Mistake

Your Home’s Main Water Shut Off

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