When planning a trip, most homeowners think about securing the house, setting timers for lights, or arranging pet care. But there’s another important consideration many overlook: what to do with your water heater and air conditioner (AC) while you’re away.
Should you turn them off completely? Should you leave them running? Or is there a middle ground that saves money without creating problems when you return? Let’s break it down.
Why This Question Matters
Utility bills are one of the largest monthly expenses for households. Heating water accounts for nearly 20% of a home’s energy use, and cooling can be even higher in warmer climates. If you’re gone for several days—or weeks—those costs add up.
But money isn’t the only concern. Shutting off or neglecting systems like your water heater and air conditioner can affect:
- Appliance longevity
- Home comfort when you return
- Plumbing safety, especially during extreme weather
- Humidity levels, which impact mold and mildew
Should You Turn Off Your Water Heater While on Vacation?
Pros of Turning Off Your Water Heater
- Lower energy bills – Your heater won’t waste energy keeping water hot when no one’s home.
- Reduced wear and tear – Less cycling means less strain on components.
- Extra peace of mind – Shutting off water and power reduces risk of leaks or malfunctions while you’re gone.
Cons of Turning Off Your Water Heater
- Cold water on return – It may take several hours for the tank to reheat.
- Potential sediment buildup – In older tanks, cooling and reheating water may stir up sediment.
- Freezing risks in winter climates – If you turn it off completely and pipes freeze; damage could be worse.
The Best Approach
For most trips under two weeks, it’s often better to switch your water heater to “vacation mode” (if available). This setting keeps the water at a lower temperature (around 50–60°F) to prevent bacteria growth but avoids full energy use.
If your heater doesn’t have this mode, consider lowering the thermostat manually instead of shutting it down completely.
👉 Need help figuring out your system? Discount Water Heaters offers expert advice, affordable replacements, and same-day service to make sure your home is ready before you travel.
Should You Turn Off Your AC When You’re Away?
Why You Shouldn’t Fully Turn Off the AC
Unlike a water heater, an air conditioner plays a key role in managing humidity and air circulation. If you turn it off entirely:
- Indoor humidity may climb, leading to mold growth.
- Electronics and wood furniture may be damaged by moisture.
- Returning home to a hot, sticky house can be unpleasant and harder to cool down.
The Smarter Alternative: Adjust the Thermostat
- In summer: Raise your thermostat to 78–82°F while away.
- In winter (for heat pumps or HVAC systems): Lower it to 55–60°F to prevent frozen pipes.
Smart thermostats allow you to make adjustments remotely, so you can cool or heat the home right before you return.
👉 For AC and HVAC system maintenance, trust One Hour Air Conditioning of Treasure Coast. Their team ensures your system runs efficiently so you save money and avoid breakdowns.
Balancing Energy Savings and Safety
When deciding whether to turn off your water heater and AC while away, think about these factors:
- Length of your trip – A few days vs. multiple weeks.
- Local climate – Hot and humid areas require different strategies than cold regions.
- System age – Older heaters or AC units may not restart smoothly after being powered down.
- Home type – Single-family homes, condos, and vacation rentals may each have unique considerations.
Practical Tips Before You Leave Town
- Water Heater
- Use “vacation mode” or lower the thermostat.
- Turn off the water supply valve to reduce the risk of leaks.
- For tankless heaters, consult your manual—they use little standby energy but may benefit from powering down.
- Air Conditioner / HVAC
- Raise (or lower, in winter) the thermostat instead of turning it off.
- Ensure filters are clean for efficient operation.
- Use ceiling fans on low to promote circulation if available.
- General Home Prep
- Shut off main water supply if you’re gone for weeks.
- Unplug non-essential electronics to save energy.
- Ask a neighbor or friend to check on your home.
Common Questions Homeowners Ask
Will bacteria grow in my water heater if I turn it off? Possibly, which is why “vacation mode” or lowering temperature is better than shutting off completely for short trips.
Is it bad for my AC to cycle on and off while I’m away? No—keeping it running at higher temps is safer than letting humidity build up.
How much money can I really save? Depending on trip length and system efficiency, savings range from $10–$30 per week for water heating and significantly more for cooling in hot climates.
What about smart home solutions? Smart thermostats and water heater timers are excellent investments if you travel often.
Why Trust Discount Water Heaters and One Hour Air?
At Discount Water Heaters, we understand that homeowners want affordable, stress-free solutions. That’s why we make water heater repair and replacement simple:
- Same-day installation so you’re never without hot water for long.
- Upfront pricing so there are no surprises.
- Premium water heaters at the lowest possible price.
- No pushy sales tactics, just simple solutions that save you money.
And for your cooling and heating systems, One Hour Air Conditioning of Treasure Coast delivers dependable service that keeps your home comfortable year-round.
Final Takeaway
So, should you turn off your water heater and AC when you go out of town?
- Water heater – Don’t shut it off completely unless you’ll be gone for weeks. Use “vacation mode” or lower the temperature instead.
- AC – Never turn it off in hot, humid climates. Raise the thermostat instead to balance comfort, energy savings, and home protection.
A little preparation goes a long way. With the right strategy, you can save money on utilities while keeping your home safe and comfortable—so you return from vacation refreshed, not stressed.
Call to Action
If you’re planning a trip and want expert advice on water heater efficiency, maintenance, or replacement, call Discount Water Heaters today. And if you need help with your AC or HVAC system, trust the pros at One Hour Air Conditioning of Treasure Coast. Save money, protect your home, and enjoy peace of mind before you hit the road.