Vacation is a time to relax and unwind from the stresses of everyday life. It's also a time when many homeowners overlook the importance of preparing their plumbing system before they leave.
Going away on vacation can leave your home vulnerable to plumbing problems like leaks, clogs, or worse. In this blog post, we'll give you tips on preventing plumbing emergencies and ensuring you have a worry-free vacation.
How to Prepare Your Plumbing System for Vacation
Turn Off The Main Water Valve
Turn off your main water valve before you leave. This will shut off the water supply to your entire home, thus preventing water damage in case of any plumbing emergencies.
Keep in mind that if your home has a lawn sprinkler system, it will be affected when the main water valve is turned off. Make sure to shut off the sprinkler system separately.
Check Your Sump Pump
If you have a sump pump, it's critical to ensure it works correctly before you leave. The sump pump pumps water out of your basement or crawl space. If it's not working correctly, your home may flood due to excessive rainwater. So, make sure to check the sump pump's functioning and battery backup before you head out.
Turn Down The Water Heater Thermostat
Consider turning down the thermostat on your water heater. There's no need to keep it running at full capacity when no one is home to use it. Turning the temperature down saves energy and can help extend your water heater's life.
If you have a gas-powered water heater, you may turn it off entirely. This can reduce the risk of a gas leak or carbon monoxide poisoning, which can be potentially life-threatening.
Enlist The Help of a Trusted Friend
If your vacation will last longer than a week, it's a good idea to ask someone you trust, like a neighbor or a family member, to check on your home regularly. They can check for any issues and turn the main water valve back on when you're about to return.
It's also a good idea to leave their contact information with your plumbing and insurance providers in case of an emergency.
Inspect Your Pipes
Inspecting your plumbing system's pipes before you leave for vacation is advisable. Check for any visible signs of leaks or wear and tear. If you notice anything suspicious, contact a professional plumber before leaving. They can assess the state of your pipes and repair or replace them if necessary, preventing any plumbing mishaps while you are gone.
Enjoy a Worry-Free Vacation
Don't let plumbing problems ruin your vacation. By taking these simple steps before you leave, you can reduce the risk of a plumbing emergency and have peace of mind knowing that your home is safe and sound.
If you notice a plumbing problem before you leave for vacation, contact our experts at Aztec Plumbing & Drains immediately. We can fix the problem and ensure you enjoy your vacation without worrying about your home’s plumbing. (239) 232-2012