Why Does My Water Heater Go Into Vacation Mode?

Why does my hot water heater keep going to vacation mode?

Asked in the following category: General The most recent update was made on the 26th of January, 2020.Leaving your water heater on vacation mode guarantees that the water heater does not waste electricity while no one is around, so conserving energy and lowering your energy costs throughout the summer months.Aside from being more convenient, setting your heater into vacation mode is also more secure than turning it off, especially during the winter.When a water heater is in vacation mode, the energy consumption of the water heater is reduced while only enough electricity is provided to prevent frozen pipes.To follow up, are there any vacation settings on electric water heaters?

Vacation setting is available on new water heaters with the use of a temperature control labeled ″VAC.″ 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.Similarly, many wonder, ″Why does my hot water tank continue to vent?″ Incorrect water heater venting can result in a phenomenon known as backdrafting, which occurs when exhaust gases from the water heater fail to depart the residence through the vent and instead accumulate within the property.

Is it necessary to switch off the hot water heater while shutting off the water?For the purpose of relieving pressure, the water is shut off and emptied someplace in the home.You might also experience an accumulation of potentially deadly pressure in the event of a relief valve failure in rare conditions.

To summarize, please remember to switch off your water heater when you turn off your water supply.

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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Asked in the following category: General The most recent update was made on the 22nd of January, 2020.When the premises are not in use, users may utilize the vacation mode settings to minimize the activity of their heater and, consequently, their energy usage.Leaving your water heater on vacation mode guarantees that the water heater does not waste electricity while no one is around, so conserving energy and lowering your energy costs throughout the summer months.When a water heater is in vacation mode, the energy consumption of the water heater is reduced while only enough electricity is provided to prevent frozen pipes.Also, is it worthwhile to switch off the water heater?

Because water heaters regulate the temperature of the water in the tank, if the temperature is cold and the water isn’t being heated, your water pipes may get frozen and, in the worst case scenario, may break completely.Alternatively, if you know that you will only be away from your house for a brief length of time, turning off your water heater is completely safe to do so.In this manner, why does my hot water tank continue to vent?

Incorrect water heater venting can result in a phenomenon known as backdrafting, which occurs when exhaust gases from the water heater fail to depart the residence through the vent and instead accumulate within the property.Is it necessary to switch off the water heater while on vacation?Although it is not suggested to turn off a water heater altogether, you may save a substantial amount of energy—and money—while on vacation by setting the water heater to vacation mode instead of the regular setting.

It is sufficient to reduce the temperature by a few degrees if your heater does not have a vacation mode in order to avoid it from turning on and off so frequently.

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.

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!

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.

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, including any teens who may be home alone from time to time.A single valve regulates the flow of water into and out of your property.

It is possible that knowing how to shut off the valve in an emergency situation can save you thousands of dollars in damage repair and restoration costs in the future.Learn how to utilize the valve this weekend, and you’ll be better prepared to handle a plumbing problem in your house.

Water Heater Reset Button Keeps Tripping?

Our hot water heaters are extremely useful for a variety of reasons, from taking hot showers to cleaning dishes.Year after year, they put up tremendous effort on behalf of our family.However, due to normal wear and tear, these water heaters are susceptible to malfunctioning at any point in time.A number of problems can arise, but one of the most common is when the water heater’s reset button keeps tripping over and over again.When this occurs, it can result in a great deal of frustration for everyone involved.

Fortunately, identifying the source of the problem and implementing a remedy are both quite simple processes.Continue reading to learn about a few probable causes for an electric water heater reset button that is constantly tripping, as well as how to resolve the problem.

Potential Causes

Malfunctioning Thermostat

If the water heater reset button keeps tripping, the first thing to check is the temperature setting on the thermostat.When using an electric water heater, you have two thermostats: one on the top and one on the bottom of the tank.The reset button may be found on the top of the thermostat.The function of these thermostats is to monitor the temperature of the water and to turn off the heating element when the required temperature has been reached or exceeded.One of the reasons for having two thermostats is that the water heater has an upper and lower heating element, each of which is regulated by a separate thermostat.

Both thermostats interact with one another in order to guarantee that only one heating element is in operation at any one moment.Occasionally, though, one of these thermostats may have a malfunction and become locked in the ON position.When this occurs, the thermostat may fail to switch off the heating element, resulting in the reset button being activated repeatedly.

This cycle might repeat itself over and over again until the problem is resolved.

Solution

If your thermostat is damaged or malfunctioning, the best course of action is to hire a professional to replace it. Once an expert has determined which thermostat is failing, he or she will replace it. Given the fact that this solution contains electrical components, we strongly advise that you seek the advice of a specialist.

Worn-out Heating Element

According to what we covered previously, thermostats and heating elements are two of the most important components of an electric water heater.While we previously discussed the issues associated with a faulty thermostat, we will now examine the issues associated with worn-out heating components.If the reset button on your water heater continues tripping, it’s possible that one of the heating components is faulty or worn out.Because it is used to heat water, your hot water heater will not function properly if this component is missing.There may be fractures in the metal casing of the heating element of a water heater thermostat if the reset button on the thermostat is constantly tripped.

This exposes live wires to water, resulting in a system short due to a short circuit.When there is a short, the power to the heating element will continue to flow through the circuit.The water will continue to be heated by the thermostat until the temperature reaches 180 degrees.

Once this temperature has been reached, the reset button will trip in order to prevent the temperature from increasing any higher.One indicator to check for is water that does not feel hot to the touch.If you observe a reduction in the temperature of the water, it is possible that the heating element has worn out.

Solution

The solution is similar to that of a thermostat in that it entails the simple replacement of a system component. If the reset button on your hot water heater is constantly being triggered, changing one of the heating components may be the solution. Make sure you get an expert to do this replacement service for you.

Broken Reset Button

When the reset button on a water heater continues tripping, another typical cause is a corroded or faulty reset button.If this button is not functioning properly, it is possible that you may require a replacement.With this reset button, you may force the device to shut down when it reaches a temperature of more than 180 degrees.This button, on the other hand, can become worn out over time, perhaps resulting in problems.When the button fails to precisely monitor the temperature of the water, this is a regular problem.

Though this occurs, even when the water temperature is low, the system may be forced to shutdown.

Solution

Replacement of a water heater’s thermostat is the most effective option when its reset button repeatedly trips. Due to the fact that this button is located on the higher thermostat, you will just need to replace that specific thermostat; the lower thermostat should still function properly. As previously said, it is essential that a professional manage the replacement.

Poor Wiring or Bad Breaker

If there is any loose wiring or if the cables were not properly put, this might potentially be the source of the electric water heater reset button problem.When this type of incident arises in your house, you will want immediate assistance.Wiring faults might not only cause difficulties with the water heater, but they can also be a significant safety hazard.Your electric water heater, on the other hand, is constructed with a number of safety mechanisms that will protect you from a catastrophic failure.However, any wiring concerns should be addressed as soon as possible.

There will be an excessive amount of heat generated if there is a loose wire in the system.Because the reset button is sensitive to heat, it will trip if it detects it.This procedure will be repeated until the problem has been resolved.

It’s possible that a faulty breaker will cause problems as well.If your circuit breaker is worn out or malfunctions, it is possible that the hot water heater reset button will trip as a result.

Solution

First, contact a plumber to see whether they are capable of doing this job. If this is not the case, you may require the services of a professional electrician. While dealing with this issue can be stressful and time-consuming, contacting a professional can resolve the issue in a matter of minutes. Are you a homeowner in search of dependable heating, cooling, and plumbing supplies?

Our dedicated specialists are standing by to help.

The majority of homes who are in the market for new heating or cooling equipment will do an online search to gather information.A search of this nature will normally provide two results: what to purchase and where to buy, but not why to buy it.As a wholesale supply firm, InterCounty Supply presents all of the possibilities for what to buy as well as why that particular item would be the ideal decision for YOUR particular scenario.After all of the possibilities have been provided, a homeowner may make an informed decision about what they require.Once this has been completed, an authorized and qualified contractor who SPECIALIZES in the equipment you require will visit your house and offer a detailed cost breakdown for the equipment you have purchased from us.

In addition, ICS will handle all of the paperwork for any rebates that may be available.If you have any questions, please contact us at 914-939-4350 or complete the form below and one of our professionals will contact you as soon as possible.

Best Home Thermostat Settings & Temperatures for Winter

HEATING AND AIR CONDITIONING | November 8, 2021 Is your family continuously bickering about the best way to adjust the thermostat during the winter? It’s time to put an end to the long-running family quarrel about the right thermostat temperature in the winter. Keep your cool, or warm, as the case may be. In this post, we’ll attempt to provide answers to the following questions: What is the most comfortable setting to have your thermostat set at throughout the winter?
During the winter, what temperature should you set your thermostat at at night?
During the winter, what temperature should you set your thermostat to while you are away?
What is the lowest temperature at which you should set your thermostat in the winter?

First and foremost, let us consider the most crucial issue that anyone who is responsible for paying the heating bill is likely to ask.

What Heating Temperature Should My Thermostat Be Set to in Winter?

Everyone’s reaction to the weather and the change of the seasons is different.It is possible that the weather outdoors will have a negative impact on our mood, leading us to alter the temperature by turning on the heater, wrapping ourselves in a fleece blanket, and binge-watching anything on the sofa.However, the reality is that heating your home throughout the winter consumes a significant amount of energy.And, with natural gas prices predicted to be 30 percent higher in 2021 than they were last winter, households across the United States will need to find a means to minimize their heating expenditures while still keeping their families toasty warm this winter.By correctly setting your thermostat to keep your home’s temperature at a comfortable level during winter, you may save money on energy and reduce your monthly heating bills.

The Ideal Temperature During Winter Is…

This winter, according to ENERGY STAR, the optimal temperature to keep your thermostat set at is 68° Fahrenheit.
Many people consider 68 degrees to be a low temperature, yet there are several advantages to keeping your home at this temperature.
When the outside temperature is below freezing, forcing your furnace or heating system to maintain a high inside temperature can put a lot of strain on your HVAC system.
A furnace that runs continuously in an attempt to attain a higher temperature setting can drive your heating bills through the roof, and the additional operating stress placed on your system may increase the likelihood of furnace repair.
In the winter, keeping your home’s heating at a moderate temperature will not only offer appropriate warmth for your family indoors, but it may also result in significant energy savings, which will help keep your heating energy bills down and the lifespan of your furnace extended.

What Should I Set My Thermostat to in Winter At Night?

You’d think that as the temperatures drop in the evenings during the winter, you’d want to put up the heat before going to bed, right?
Not so fast, my friend.
According to the United States Department of Energy, an interior temperature of 65 degrees Fahrenheit throughout the night is ideal.
In fact, setting your thermostat to a lower temperature at night may really aid in improving your sleep.
Medical professionals are aware that our body temperature lowers during the night.

When it is too chilly or too hot indoors throughout the night, our internal body temperatures go out of whack, which can result in more irregular sleep patterns.

Best Temperature to Set a Thermostat in Winter While Away

Are you planning a winter vacation away from home to somewhere warm?
(If you’re lucky) You might come up with the energy-saving idea of just turning your furnace off completely while you’re away on vacation.
It will still be necessary to keep the heat on in some capacity, especially if dogs are going to be left in the house throughout the winter.
If you have houseplants or dogs that will not be with you on your trip, you should set your thermostat to a lower temperature.
It is necessary for houseplants to have an interior temperature of at least 60 degrees Fahrenheit in order to survive.

When it comes to your four-legged companions, keeping the thermostat set no lower than 64 degrees Fahrenheit will keep them safe and comfortable while you’re away.

What’s The Lowest Temperature I Can Set My Thermostat in Winter?

Do you really adore the cold to the point that you would prefer not to use any heat throughout the winter?
In order to prevent your appliances and pipes from freezing, you should set your thermostat to a minimum of 50-55 degrees throughout the winter.
There are few things more frustrating than coming home after a trip or waking up in the morning to a frozen dishwasher or flooded basement.
The same may be said for any vacation properties that are left vacant during the winter months, as well as for any rental properties that are left vacant during the winter months.
Maintaining some level of heat circulation throughout the home can help protect it from any harm to the structure.

Upgrade to a Programmable Thermostat

The cost of replacing something that is still functional is rarely justified unless the replacement would save you money.
Heating expenses may be reduced throughout the year with the use of a programmable thermostat or a smart thermostat, such as the Nest Thermostat, which can save you money.
You may preset your thermostat to use the temperature settings that our Home Comfort Specialists have advised on this page, and your thermostat will operate on autopilot.
Upgrading your thermostat will help you keep your home’s heating schedule under control while saving you up to 10 percent to 12 percent on your annual heating expenditures, whether you’re sleeping, driving to work, or playing with your children in the snow.

Additional Cost-Saving Thermostat Tips for Winter

Another set of fast recommendations to help you save money on your utility costs while keeping a suitable interior temperature that the whole family can appreciate is provided below.

Lower Temperature Settings Gradually

Slowly reduce the temperature in your home by one degree every week until your family has been used to the cooler winter conditions. Eventually, you will all grow more comfortable with a lower thermostat setting, which will also assist you to save money on your heating bills.

Maintain Your Furnace Annually

Every fall, it’s critical to arrange a heating system tune-up before the temperatures outside begin to drop significantly below freezing. In addition to ensuring that your family is comfortable during winter, having a well maintained furnace or heating system may identify any problems before they become serious.

Invest in a New Energy-Efficient Heating System

In the event that your present system is more than ten years old, it may be time to start thinking about new furnace installation and upgrading to a more modern HVAC system. Furnaces developed today are up to 15 percent more efficient than earlier ones and can provide the same amount of heat, if not more, than older models.

Consider Multi-Zoned HVAC Options

You may set your HVAC system to operate at various comfortable temperatures in different rooms around your house with a multi-zone heating and cooling system. While multi-zone heating systems are more expensive than a standard HVAC unit, they allow the greatest amount of control over the interior temperature across your whole home, saving you money in the long run.

Keep Your Home Comfortable This Winter With ARS/Rescue Rooter

Are you looking for additional methods to save money this winter? ARS/Rescue Rooter is the nation’s premier home services company, specializing in heating and cooling, electrical, plumbing, and attic insulation, among other things. Find your local location or give us a call to set up a home evaluation appointment right now.

Lighting a Hot Water Heater Pilot Light

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In reality, problems with the pilot light are rather prevalent during the process of gas water heater troubleshooting, and they are relatively simple to resolve.
Learn how to turn on a water heater pilot light by following these simple instructions.

Before You Strike a Flame

Take a deep breath and take a few steps back from the unit.
Do you have a gas smell or anything that smells like rotten eggs?
If this is the case, attempting to ignite the pilot at this stage is exceedingly risky and might result in an explosion.
Turn off the gas to your water heater and leave it off for one hour.
Turn the gas back on and wait 10 minutes before taking another smell.

The situation should be reported to an appropriately trained professional.

How to Light a Pilot Light on a Gas Water Heater

Older gas water heaters need you to ignite the pilot using a flame, however modern ones have an igniter built in.
Identify the sort of gas intake line you have by looking for a little glass window around the line’s perimeter.
This window can only be found on later models, because previous versions require you to physically access the pilot light in order to utilize it.
In the event that you have run out of fuel or that the gas has been turned off, it may take many tries to get the pilot light to ignite since all of the air must first be expelled out of the line.
Reduce the temperature setting on the thermostat to the lowest possible level.

Only the lowest setting should be used; do not turn the device off.Turn the On/Off knob to the PILOT position.Reduce the temperature setting on the thermostat to the lowest possible level.Only the lowest setting should be used; do not turn the device off.Turn the On/Off knob to the PILOT position.

Remove the exterior access panel from the water heater, which is located at the bottom of the unit.Some models include a secondary access panel beneath the outer one, which serves as a safety panel to protect the pilot light and must be removed as well.Other models do not have a secondary access panel.On all versions, you do not need to remove the access panel, and the controls are located outside the tank towards the bottom of the device.If your unit is equipped with a pilot button, push and hold the button for several seconds.If there isn’t a specific button, you can press the full pilot control knob down to activate the pilot mode.

This button must be held down until the pilot light has been turned on.

Older Models

There is a short tube that extends from the base of the water heater gas valve and connects it to the pilot light on the heater. Locate this line and follow it to become familiar with the area that has to be illuminated before you begin. Start the pilot light by lighting it with a grill igniter or a fireplace match.

Newer StylesLocate the pilot igniter button somewhere near the On/Off knob. While holding down the pilot button, press the pilot igniter button. If you look through the glass window while doing so, you will see a spark generated as the igniter is pressed.

Completing the Job

If the pilot comes on, press and hold the button for 20 seconds before releasing it.
If the candle does not remain lit, repeat the procedure.
If the pilot will not light or will not stay lighted after numerous attempts, check to see that there is enough gas in the tank and that there is adequate ventilation.
Some types contain a washable and replaceable filter, which is convenient.
There are a variety of different reasons why your pilot light isn’t staying lit that you might investigate further.

If the pilot light comes on, you can replace the inner access panel (if one is available), followed by the outer access panel and finally the pilot light.The pilot control knob should be in the ON position, with the temperature control knob set to the required temperature.

Can An Electric Water Heater Explode?

Skip to the main content Is It Possible For An Electric Water Heater To Explode?
The response is an emphatic YES, without hesitation.
Electric water heaters have the potential to explode.
That is not to mean that you should be overly concerned.
Installing and maintaining your water heater by a genuine specialist is always the best alternative, as water heaters that are not properly installed and maintained nearly never fail.

They are educated on what may and does go wrong with them, as well as how to avoid it in the first place.When water heaters are not properly maintained or installed, they can pose a serious threat.Observe the following indicators that your water heater may be about to blow up:

Signs That Your Electric Water Heater May Explode

Popping, pounding, or banging noises – Does it sound like popcorn is coming out of the heater’s combustion chamber? Over time, particles can accumulate in your water heater, causing obstructions that prevent warm water from rising to the top. It is the water bubbling beneath the accumulation that is making the popping sounds when it exits.
Gas leaks are frequently indicated by a sulfurous or rotten egg smell, which should be treated as a life-threatening emergency. If you are able to, switch off the gas and contact a professional as soon as possible. However, if you moved from gas to electricity and discovered that the original gas line had not been properly sealed, it is possible that the problem was caused by the original gas line being improperly capped.
It is usually found at the top of the heater and is responsible for releasing pressure as well as water from the tank when the heater leaks. If this valve is leaking, it signals that the pressure within the water tank has risen to an unsafe level, and it may even explode if the pressure continues to rise. If you observe this, you should immediately switch off your water heater.
Thermostat connections that are incorrectly connected — An improperly installed water heater is subject to a variety of concerns, including the possibility of an explosion, therefore it’s always best to have a competent specialist install and maintain your water heater.
Brown sediment in your water – When sediments build up inside your water tank, they ultimately loosen and flow with the water, creating a brown sediment in your water. This signifies that a sufficient amount of silt has accumulated within to form a blockage, which may result in an explosion.

How to Prevent your Electric Water Heater from Exploding

It is possible to take steps to guarantee the proper maintenance of your water heater, which will ultimately improve the overall safety of your property. If you are familiar with the normal functioning parameters of your water heater, you can check on the temperature and pressure valve to see if anything is wrong with it at any time.
Reduce the water temperature – It should be set between 120 and 130 degrees Fahrenheit, with typical recommendations of 125 degrees Fahrenheit. Scalding, scorching, or wounded skin, as well as catastrophic damage to your water heater and sewage system, are all possible consequences of exceeding this limit.
Make an appointment for a yearly tune-up – Keeping on top of your water heater’s maintenance should always entail having a licensed and dependable professional take care of the job for you. Your expert will be able to cleanse your water heater at the same time that they are checking for problems, which will improve the taste of your water as well as the efficiency of your unit.
Allow experts to do the task – As tempting as it may be to complete the work ourselves in order to save money, doing so may result in sloppy or unskilled work. A water heater that has not been properly installed or serviced is more likely to explode. When it comes to repairs, it is usually better to leave them to the pros.

Want a Second Opinion?

If you’re concerned about the condition of your water heater, don’t be. Our crew provides water heater repair and installation services in Manteca, Tracy, Lathrop, and other nearby communities, so you can rest certain that you are in excellent hands.

Should I Turn Off the Water Heater if the Water Is Off?

When you turn off your water line, cold water will cease flowing into your house completely, and if your water heater has a tank, the tank will stop replenishing with cold water when the water line is turned off.
In the event that your water is turned off for an extended length of time and you use a lot of hot water, you run the danger of sustaining catastrophic harm.
If your water is shut off for a lengthy period of time, such as during a vacation, you should switch off your water heater.
If you have a tank-type or hybrid water heater, you should turn off your water heater when the water is turned off.
Keep your water heater turned on until the cold water begins flowing again if you are shutting down only for a brief period of time.

Various types of water heaters will be discussed in this article, as well as how they are connected to a water line and what to do if you need to shut off your water or encounter a cutoff for whatever reason.

How Water Heaters Work

Even in the summers, the water that enters your home through a water line and the related pipes is normally chilly or cool to the touch.
In order for you to have warm water in your house, the water must first be heated before it is delivered through the plumbing system.
Water heaters are often placed in the basement of a house and require either a gas or an electric heating unit to operate.
There are four fundamental types, each of which performs the same purpose in a slightly different way than the other three types.
The four fundamental kinds are as follows:

Tank-Type Heaters

Tank-type water heaters are the most common form of water heater on the market.
Essentially, it is comprised of an insulated tank filled with water that is placed above or beside a gas or electric heating device to provide warmth.
The cold water enters the tank from the bottom and rises when a gas flame or an electric element warms the water to the surface.
A pressure relief valve prevents the heater from being overly pressured if the pressure rises too high.
When a hot water appliance or faucet is required, the water tank pumps hot water out of the tank through the top of the tank and replaces it with new, cold water at the bottom of the tank, as shown.

Despite the fact that this process is repeated indefinitely, tankless heaters might occasionally struggle to keep up with strong demand for hot water.Tank-type heaters also use energy continually in order to keep the water in the tank warm even when it is not needed, making them less efficient than certain other heating methods.

Tankless Water Heaters

Because they do not store water, tankless water heaters are significantly smaller than traditional tank-type heaters.
It instead waits for a hot-water tap or appliance to demand warm water before activating an electric element or gas burner and drawing cold water directly over the heating mechanism and to where it is required.
Despite the fact that tankless water heaters last far longer and provide an unending supply of hot water, they are significantly more expensive to acquire, install, and maintain than tank-type water heaters.

Hybrid Water Heaters

However, they consume more energy than a tankless water heater, which is the most energy-efficient option available. On the surface, the hybrid works by storing water in a tank coupled to an air compressor, which uses air temperature to catch and transmit heat to cold water instead of a gas flame or electrical parts.

Point-of-Use Heaters

These tiny and compact heaters are typically used in conjunction with the main water heater to provide hot water on demand.
Point-of-use heaters are often put at fixtures that are far away from the main heater in order to prevent the need to run the water and wait for the water to warm up before using it.
These electrically driven machines heat the water instantly, so removing the need for a waiting period.
Point-of-use water heaters often last a long time and can be installed quickly and simply, but they cannot be used to replace a home’s primary water heater due to their smaller size.

How the Home Water Line Works

You may find the location of your water main by looking for a 12″ to 112″ pipeline that runs near your water meter if your home is linked to the city’s water system.
The presence of an emergency shutdown valve, which would cut off all water flowing into your plumbing system, is also possible, although it is not guaranteed.
It is possible that your home is connected to a water well, in which case your system may appear somewhat different, but the function will be the same.
The water that enters your house through the main water line has been pressured, allowing it to move through your pipes against gravity, saving you time and money.
This implies that water may flow very rapidly, whether it comes from a faucet, a hose, or a burst pipe in the event of a disaster such as a flood.

If you do experience a burst pipe, it’s critical to utilize your emergency stop valve to prevent extensive flooding from occurring.A separate drainage system is used to remove water from the house, generating a flow that transports wastewater to a sewage treatment plant or septic tank through pipes.

The Water Line and the Water Heater

It is important to note that the water entering your home is chilled and passes through cold water pipes. An inlet line from the water heater is connected to one of these pipes. Your water heater is also connected to a hot water line, via which water is sent to various appliances and faucets. Whenever water is required, it is fed into and out of the heater.

What Happens to the Water Heater When Your Water Is Turned Off?

Cold water ceases flowing into your plumbing system from the outside when you turn off your water, which means that your tank-type or hybrid heater will no longer be able to replenish with more water.
If the water is turned off for a lengthy period of time and the tank is completely depleted, it is necessary to turn off the water heater to prevent damage to the tank and other components.
Unless your water heater is nearly full or completely full, you should not be required to turn it off during a short-term water disconnection.
As tankless and point-of-use water heaters do not operate on a continuous heating element or keep water in a storage tank, they do not need that the water supply be disconnected from the mains.

When to Turn Off Your Water Heater

In the event of a plumbing emergency, such as when your cold water line loses pressure and fails to fill the water tank, or when your water tank empties for any other reason, it may be essential to turn off your water heater temporarily. It may also be beneficial, but not required, to turn off your water heater in some circumstances, such as when there is a leak. Leaks can occur for a variety of causes, including the following: The following factors contribute to high pressure and high temperature: improper drainage, old age, and damaged tank.

In order to save money by not operating the water heater while it is not in use, it is preferable to lower the temperature of the water heater rather than totally shutting off the system. Turning back on a water heater may be a challenging task, and you may find yourself without hot water for a longer period of time than you’d prefer. You should proceed with caution and ensure that you are familiar with the components of your water heater before making any alterations if you decide to turn off your water heater. The following are the components of a water heater: The shutdown valve, which is normally positioned outside and above the water heater, is responsible for stopping the flow of cold water into the device.
The drain valve is normally found towards the bottom of the tank and is responsible for emptying the water and sediment from the storage tank.
Using a pressure release valve, you can ensure that the pressure inside the tank stays below acceptable limits.
If you are concerned about an empty tank following a water shutdown, the heating mechanism, which may be either gas or electric, is the most critical portion of the tank to switch off.

In order to switch off your water heater, follow the steps outlined in the video below:

Conclusion

In the majority of circumstances, you will not need to turn off your water heater if the water is turned off. The water heater must be turned off only in the unusual event that you have had your water cut off for a lengthy period of time and have used up all of the water in the tank of your water heater. Call a skilled plumber whenever you’re in doubt.

De-Winterize Your House For Spring in 5 Simple Steps

Winterizing your outdoor plumbing system should be completed before the cold weather arrives so that frozen pipes do not cause any harm to your property.
Because you won’t be using your outdoor plumbing during the winter, it’s better to drain the system of water and turn off the water supply to avoid the pipes from freezing.
When spring arrives, you’ll need to de-winterize your home in order to utilize your hose for things like watering your garden, washing your car, and filling your kiddy pool.
The majority of individuals just winterize their external plumbing because it isn’t used throughout the winter and is consequently more susceptible to bursting due to cold temperatures.
Because you use your indoor plumbing on a regular basis, it is less vulnerable to damage.

If you’re a snowbird, on the other hand, and expect to be gone for several weeks or months over the winter, you should winterize your whole house, including the interior and outdoor plumbing.De-winterizing your home refers to the process of getting your plumbing system back in working order for regular use.It’s a rather straightforward procedure that essentially entails reversing the steps you took in the autumn to winterize your plumbing.In this essay, we’ll talk about outside faucets in more detail.In contrast, if you are de-winterizing the entire house, the procedure remains the same.

5 Easy Steps to De-Winterize Your House

Step 1: Remove aerators from all faucets.

The removal of the aerator allows any water that has accumulated in the system to flow away.

Step 2: Open the water supply valves on each faucet.

Each faucet has its own supply valve, which regulates the amount of water that flows through it. Turning off the individual water supply valves, as well as turning off the main water supply valve, are all steps in the winterization process. When you open the supply valve, be sure that all of the faucets are in the off position.

Step 3: Open the supply valve at the hot water heater.

After you have opened the supply valve on your hot water heater, you should open one of your outside hose bibs, also known as spigots, to let the water flow. This will allow you to verify that the water is flowing and will also aid in the release of some of the pressure that has built up while the water has been turned off for a short period of time.

Step 4: Open the supply valve at the water meter.

It is the water meter supply valve that serves as the main water supply for your home.
It is not recommended to open this supply valve in a single move.
Continue to go gently and cautiously.
Rotate the valve a quarter turn every 10 seconds to ensure proper operation.
Instead than flooding your plumbing lines in a flurry, this will enable the water flow to build gradually, preventing the system from being shocked and overwhelmed, which might result in leaks.

It’s preferable if you can get a few extra hands to assist you with this phase.People should be stationed throughout the home to look for and listen for leaks.If you notice a leak, shut off the water supply immediately and contact a plumber..

Step 5: Turn on all exterior faucets.

After you’ve opened the central supply valve and checked for leaks, you may turn on all of the external faucets at once.
Allowing them to run for a number of minutes will aid in the removal of any silt that has accumulated inside the pipes.
Allow them to run until the water is completely clear.
Check the water pressure at each spigot while they’re running to make sure they’re working properly.
A drop in pressure might indicate the presence of a leak anywhere within the shaft’s interior.

If you’r

Why does my hot water heater keep going to vacation mode?

What is vacation mode?

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