Summer vacation homes are a great way to escape the hustle and bustle of daily life and enjoy some much-needed relaxation. However, your vacation home could cost you more than you bargained for if you’re not careful. One of the most common issues homeowners face when they return to their summer vacation homes after a long winter is problems with their water heater. Let’s take a look at how to avoid costly repairs and keep your water heater running smoothly throughout the summer.
Turn Off the Water Heater When You’re Away
If you’re going to be away from your vacation home for an extended period, the best way to avoid any problems with your water heater is to turn it off completely. Most water heaters have a “Vacation” mode that you can activate to reduce energy consumption while you’re gone. However, if you’re going to be absent for more than a few weeks, it’s better to turn the water heater off entirely. This will not only save you money on your energy bill, but it will also prevent any potential problems from occurring while you’re away.
Drain the Tank
Another way to prevent costly repairs to your water heater is to drain the tank before you leave for the summer. This is especially important if your summer vacation home is located in an area that experiences extreme temperature fluctuations throughout the year. When water freezes, it expands, which can cause damage to the tank and other components of the water heater. By draining the tank, you’ll remove any excess water and reduce the risk of damage due to freezing.
Inspect the Tank and Connections
Before you leave for the summer, inspecting your water heater and all of its connections for signs of wear and tear is a good idea. Look for leaks or corrosion on the tank and check the connections to ensure they’re secure. If you notice any issues, it’s best to address them before you leave for the summer. This will help prevent any problems from worsening while you’re away and potentially causing costly repairs when you return.
Hire a Professional
If you need to be more comfortable inspecting your water heater or draining the tank yourself, hiring a professional to do it for you is a good idea. A licensed plumber can inspect your water heater and make any necessary repairs or adjustments to ensure it runs smoothly. While this may cost you a little bit of money up-front, it can save you a lot of money in the long run by preventing costly repairs and extending the life span of your equipment.
Install a Water Heater Alarm
Finally, one of the easiest ways to prevent costly repairs to your water heater is to install a water heater alarm. These alarms can detect leaks or other issues with your water heater and alert you before they become a major problem. Some alarms can even be connected to your smartphone or another mobile device so that you can monitor your water heater from anywhere. While this may not prevent all potential problems, it can give you peace of mind and help you address issues before they become more serious.
Your Professional Resource
Summer vacation homes are a great way to relax and escape the stresses of daily life. However, if you’re not careful, they can also be a source of costly repairs and headaches. By taking the time to properly maintain your water heater before you leave for the summer, you can avoid many potential problems and walk away from your vacation getaway without any worries. For professional water-heater services at your vacation property anywhere in the vicinity of Atlanta, contact us at The Original Plumber.
