Should You Turn Off Your Water System on Vacation?

When packing for a vacation, it’s easy to overlook something as seemingly minor as your water system. But a little bit of planning can make a big difference. Many people wonder: Should you turn off your water system on vacation? And if you have a water softener, do you need to do anything specific? 

This blog will walk you through what to consider when deciding whether to turn off your water and what to do with your water softener when you’re away.

Why Consider Shutting Off Your Water System?

Water leaks and plumbing mishaps can happen at any time, but they can be especially problematic if they occur while you’re away. 

Even a small leak can cause significant water damage if it goes unchecked for days or weeks. Shutting off your water supply while on vacation can save you from unexpected water bills, protect your home from potential flooding, and provide peace of mind while you’re away.

What About the Water Softener?

For homes with a water softener, the decision isn’t always straightforward. A water softener vacation mode is a feature on many systems that can help protect your unit and conserve energy. But how does it work, and should you use it every time you’re away?

Let’s look at what to do with your water softener when you’re preparing for an extended absence.

Assessing Your Water System: Key Considerations Before You Go

Before you decide whether to turn off your water system, consider a few essential factors:

• Length of Absence: If you’re only going away for a day or two, it might not be necessary to turn off your water. However, for vacations lasting a week or more, it’s usually best to turn it off.
• Climate Conditions: Winter vacations can pose a unique challenge, as turning off your water entirely could lead to frozen pipes in cold climates. For shorter winter getaways, setting your thermostat to maintain a warm temperature indoors can protect pipes without turning off the water.
• Water Softener Type: Different types of water softeners might have unique requirements for vacation settings, which we’ll discuss further below.

Should You Turn Off Your Water Softener When on Vacation?

Water softeners have specific components that may require care when you’re not using water regularly. Here are a few options to consider:

Use Vacation Mode on Your Water Softener

If your water softener has a vacation mode, this is a convenient setting to use. Water softener vacation mode stops the unit from regenerating water as often, which saves salt and energy. This mode is ideal for homes that won’t be using water for an extended period. Check your unit’s manual to understand how to activate this feature, as it varies depending on the brand and model.

Turn Off the Water Supply to the Softener

If your softener doesn’t have a vacation mode, you can turn off the water to your water softener specifically. This way, it won’t cycle through unnecessary regeneration. Ensure your water softener is filled with salt before you leave, as this will help it function optimally when you return.

Consider Entire Home Shut-Off

For extended vacations, it’s often recommended to turn off the main water supply to the entire home. This action protects your home from leaks and issues with appliances that use water. If you choose this route, consult the manufacturer’s guidelines to ensure your water softener won’t be negatively affected by the main water shut-off.

On the Blog: How Does a Water Softener Improve Your Home’s Water Quality?

How to Turn Off Water in Your House with a Water Softener

To turn off your home’s water supply, locate the main water valve, typically found in the basement or near the water heater. Turn this valve to shut off water flow throughout your home. This method is effective in minimizing the risk of flooding while you’re away.

However, some water softeners are directly connected to the main water supply. If yours is set up this way, turning off the main water valve may require you to bypass the softener. If in doubt, consult a professional plumber to help you safely turn off the water to the house with a water softener.

Preventative Tips for Protecting Your Water System on Vacation

When planning your water system maintenance, a few extra steps can help protect your home even further:

Inspect for Leaks Before Leaving

Before you shut off the water, do a quick inspection of visible pipes, fixtures, and appliances. Checking under sinks and around the water heater can help you identify minor leaks that could worsen if left unattended.

Drain Pipes in Winter

If you’re taking a winter vacation, consider draining pipes after turning off the main water valve to reduce the risk of freezing. Run your faucets after shutting off the main valve until no water flows out, ensuring the lines are empty.

Turn Off Water Heaters

Turning off your water heater is also a good idea if you’re planning to shut off the main water supply. Many water heaters have a vacation mode that keeps the temperature low, saving energy without completely powering down the unit.

Returning Home: Restarting Your Water System and Water Softener

After a refreshing vacation, you’ll need to take a few steps to get your water system back up and running:

• Turn On the Main Valve: Gradually open the main valve to allow water to fill the pipes slowly, preventing sudden pressure changes that could cause damage.
• Check the Water Softener: If you set your water softener to vacation mode, turn it off and allow the unit to resume regular operation. If you turn off the water supply to the softener, reconnect it as per the manufacturer’s instructions.
• Flush the System: Run taps throughout your home for a few minutes to clear out any stagnant water or build-up in the lines.
  

Final Thoughts

So, should you turn off your water softener when you go on vacation? In most cases, using a water softener vacation mode or turning off the main water supply to your house can protect your home and ensure you don’t return to a disaster. By taking a few preventive steps, you can relax on your vacation knowing that your water system is safe and ready for use when you return.

Nelson Water – High Quality Water System Solutions in Ottawa

Planning a vacation soon? Ensure your water system and softener are prepared for your absence. For professional advice on securing your water system, you can trust Nelson Water for any water system installation, maintenance, or repair in Ottawa. Contact us today to schedule a FREE consultation!