Safeguard your property: how to prevent gas water heater mishaps while you’re away

Before embarking on your well-deserved vacation, it’s crucial to prepare your home to avoid any potential mishaps. One essential task is turning off your gas water heater, which can prevent water damage and ensure your safety while you’re away. This step-by-step guide will empower you with the knowledge to effectively turn off your gas water heater for vacation.

Safety First: Gather Essential Tools

Before starting, gather the necessary tools:

• Adjustable wrench
• Screwdriver
• Flashlight

Locate the Water Heater and Gas Supply

Identify the location of your gas water heater, typically in a basement, utility room, or garage. Locate the gas supply line connected to the water heater.

Turn Off Gas Supply

Follow these steps to turn off the gas supply:

1. Locate the gas control valve: It’s usually a round or T-shaped knob on the gas supply line.
2. Turn the valve clockwise: Rotate the knob until it stops, ensuring the gas supply is fully shut off.

Turn Off Water Supply

Locate the cold water supply line connected to the water heater, usually with a blue handle. Turn the handle clockwise to shut off the water supply.

Drain the Water Heater

1. Connect a hose to the drain valve: The drain valve is typically located at the bottom of the water heater. Attach a garden hose to the valve.
2. Open the drain valve: Slowly open the drain valve to allow the water to drain out.
3. Close the drain valve: Once the water is drained, close the drain valve securely.

Turn Off Water Heater Pilot Light

1. Locate the pilot light assembly: It’s usually a small, round opening on the front or side of the water heater.
2. Depress the pilot light button: Push and hold the button for 30 seconds, allowing the gas to escape.
3. Release the button: After 30 seconds, release the button and the pilot light should extinguish.

Turn Off the Circuit Breaker

If your water heater is electric, turn off the circuit breaker that powers it. This will cut off the electrical supply to the water heater.

Confirm Gas Valve Closure

After completing the above steps, turn the gas control valve counterclockwise to turn the gas back on. If the gas valve does not open easily, it may still be closed. In this case, do not force it open. Contact a licensed plumber for assistance.

Final Checks

Before leaving, perform these final checks:

• Ensure all gas and water valves are closed securely.
• Check that the pilot light is extinguished.
• Verify that the circuit breaker is turned off (if applicable).

Vacation Time: Enjoy Peace of Mind

With your gas water heater safely turned off, you can embark on your vacation with peace of mind, knowing that your home is protected from potential water damage and other hazards.

Returning Home: Turning the Water Heater Back On

Upon your return, follow these steps to turn your gas water heater back on:

1. Turn on the gas supply by opening the gas control valve.
2. Turn on the cold water supply by opening the handle.
3. Relight the pilot light according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
4. Turn on the circuit breaker (if applicable).

Answers to Your Most Common Questions

Q: How often should I turn off my gas water heater when I’m on vacation?
A: It’s recommended to turn off your gas water heater whenever you’re away from home for an extended period of time, such as a vacation.

Q: Can I turn off my gas water heater if I’m only going to be away for a few days?
A: It’s generally not necessary to turn off your gas water heater for short trips of a few days or less.

Q: What are the risks of not turning off my gas water heater when I’m on vacation?
A: Leaving your gas water heater on while you’re away can increase the risk of water damage, gas leaks, and potential fire hazards.