Yes, it is a good practice to turn off the water supply to your washing machine when it is not in use, especially if you are planning to be away from home for an extended period. Here are the reasons why:
Prevent Water Leaks: Washing machine hoses, like any other plumbing connections, can develop leaks over time due to wear and tear. If a leak occurs while you are not at home or while the washing machine is not in use, it can cause significant water damage to your property.
Avoid Water Wastage: Leaving the water supply on when the washing machine is not in use can lead to unnecessary water wastage. By turning off the water, you can conserve water and help reduce your utility bills.
Safety: Turning off the water supply adds an extra layer of safety, especially if you have young children or pets at home who might inadvertently turn on the washing machine and cause flooding.
Extended Hose Lifespan: By reducing the time the hoses are pressurized, you can potentially extend the lifespan of the washing machine hoses and reduce the risk of a sudden hose failure.
To turn off the water supply to your washing machine, follow these steps:
Locate the Water Valves: The water supply valves for your washing machine are usually located behind or near the machine. There will be two valves, one for hot water and one for cold water.
Turn Off the Valves: Rotate the valves clockwise until they are fully closed. This will shut off the water supply to the washing machine.
Verify the Water Supply: Once the valves are closed, you can double-check by running the washing machine on a short cycle. If there's no water filling the machine, you have successfully turned off the water supply.
Remember to turn the water supply back on before using the washing machine again. It's also a good idea to periodically inspect the washing machine hoses for signs of wear or leaks and replace them if necessary, usually every 3-5 years as a preventive measure.