Yes, you should turn off your tankless water heater when on vacation to save energy and prevent potential issues, as it will not be needed while you’re away.
Planning a vacation? One question many homeowners face is whether to turn off their tankless water heater while away. The answer isn’t always straightforward – it depends on climate, trip duration, and your system’s features.
Key Considerations for Tankless Water Heaters
Tankless water heaters differ from traditional tank models in several important ways that affect vacation decisions:
- No standing water means less risk of bacterial growth
- On-demand operation uses less energy when not in use
- More sensitive to freezing temperatures in cold climates
- Many models offer vacation mode settings
Energy Savings vs. Freezing Risks
While turning off your tankless water heater completely can save energy, this approach carries risks in cold climates. Frozen pipes can burst and cause extensive water damage. The U.S. Department of Energy recommends maintaining at least some heat to prevent freezing when temperatures drop below freezing.
Vacation Mode: The Smart Middle Ground
Many modern tankless water heaters include a vacation mode setting that:
- Reduces energy consumption significantly
- Maintains just enough heat to prevent freezing
- Simplifies reactivation when you return
| Setting | Temperature | Energy Use |
|---|---|---|
| Normal | 120°F | 100% |
| Vacation | 50°F | 10-15% |
| Off | Ambient | 0% |
How to Activate Vacation Mode
Activation methods vary by manufacturer but typically involve:
- Pressing a dedicated vacation button
- Adjusting temperature settings below 50°F
- Setting to “pilot” mode on gas models
When Complete Shutoff Makes Sense
Turning off your tankless water heater completely may be appropriate when:
- Traveling during warm months in mild climates
- Going away for extended periods (1+ months)
- Having a secondary freeze protection system
- Winterizing your plumbing system completely
Step-by-Step Shutoff Procedure
- Turn off the unit’s power supply (circuit breaker for electric, gas valve for gas)
- Close the main water supply valve
- Open all hot water faucets to drain remaining water
- Consider blowing compressed air through lines for complete drainage
Special Considerations for Different Models
Electric vs. Gas Tankless Heaters
Electric models typically have simpler vacation procedures, while gas units may require special attention to pilot lights and ventilation. Gas water heaters often benefit from professional maintenance before extended shutdowns.
Recirculating Pump Systems
If your system includes a recirculation pump, additional steps may be needed to prevent pump damage during extended absences.
Returning Home: Reactivation Tips
When you return from vacation:
- Restore power/gas supply
- Slowly reopen water supply valves
- Allow system to purge air (run faucets until steady flow)
- Check for leaks before resuming normal operation
Following these guidelines will help ensure your tankless water heater provides reliable hot water while maximizing energy savings during your absence.
