Should You Leave Your Hot Water On While on Holiday?
Deciding whether to leave your hot water on while away depends on several factors. These include the age of your heater, its location, the type of piping, and the length of your trip.
How Old Is Your Hot Water Heater?
If your hot water heater is 10 years or older, consider turning it off before leaving. Older units have a higher risk of leaks or ruptures, which can cause damage while you’re away.
However, turning off an older heater may also create issues. Restarting it after a trip can be difficult, leading to delays when you need hot water. If you’re gone for only a day or two, leaving it on may be more convenient.
Where Is Your Hot Water Heater Located?
If your heater is inside your home, turning it off can help prevent potential water damage. Even a newer system can leak or burst, leading to flooding and expensive repairs. If your heater is in a garage or outside, leaks pose less risk to your home, so you may choose to leave it on.
Braided Hoses vs. Copper Pipework
Your hot water connections affect the risk of failure. Braided hoses, made from rubber, are prone to rupturing under pressure. If your system uses these, turn the heater off before leaving.
Copper pipes, on the other hand, are more durable and reliable. If you have copper piping, the chances of leaks or bursts are much lower.
How Long Will You Be Away?
If you’re gone for a few days, turning off the heater won’t make much difference. Your energy bill won’t change significantly either way.
For longer trips (several weeks or more), turning it off can lower energy costs and reduce the risk of leaks. Shutting it down also prevents potential water damage if something goes wrong.
Use “Holiday Mode” Instead of Turning It Off
Many modern heaters have a “holiday mode” option. Instead of shutting it off completely, set the temperature to 10-20°C.
This option keeps the system running at low energy levels, preventing pipe damage in colder climates. It also makes it easier to restart when you return.
Can a Hot Water Heater Explode?
A water heater can explode if the pressure relief valve malfunctions or if the temperature is too high. To prevent this, keep the water heater at the manufacturer’s recommended temperature.
When water heats up, pressure builds inside the tank. If the pressure can’t escape, the tank may rupture or explode. In extreme cases, it can shoot through the roof or even land several blocks away.
Regular maintenance and pressure relief valve checks help prevent these risks.
Is It Cheaper to Leave Hot Water On All the Time?
Generally, it’s cheaper to turn it off when not in use. Running your system continuously requires the boiler to heat water periodically, using unnecessary energy.
A good alternative is to turn it on 30-45 minutes before a bath or shower. Some systems also have programmable timers that supply hot water only when needed, helping you save money.
Final Thoughts
If you’re leaving for a short trip, keeping the water heater on won’t matter much. For longer vacations, turning it off or using holiday mode can save energy and prevent damage.
To avoid explosions, leaks, or high energy bills, always maintain your system and follow the manufacturer’s recommendations. If unsure, consult a professional hot water specialist before making changes.
I hope this answeres you question Should You Leave Hot Water on While Away on Holiday
