As a frequent traveler, there’s nothing worse than coming home after a relaxing vacation to find that a plumbing issue has caused significant damage in your absence. Water leaks, frozen pipes, and other plumbing problems can lead to expensive repairs, not to mention the stress of dealing with such unexpected issues. Thankfully, a little preparation before you leave can go a long way toward ensuring your home remains safe and dry while you’re away.
Whether you’re leaving for a weekend or an extended trip, taking the time to secure your home’s plumbing can prevent costly surprises. With the right precautions, you can enjoy your travels with peace of mind, knowing your home is safe from potential water-related disasters.
Turn Off the Main Water Supply
One of the easiest and most effective ways to protect your home’s plumbing while you’re away is by shutting off the main water supply. This simple step can prevent significant damage in the event of an unexpected pipe burst or leak.
To turn off the water supply, locate the main water valve in your home. It’s usually found in the basement, near the water meter, or where the main water line enters your house. Once you’ve located the valve, turn it clockwise to shut off the water. If you’re unsure or can’t find the valve, consider having a plumber show you the process before your next trip.
By turning off the main water supply, you’re eliminating the risk of water flooding your home in case something goes wrong, offering a layer of protection that could save you thousands of dollars in repairs.
Set Your Water Heater to Vacation Mode
Your water heater doesn’t need to run at full power while you’re away. Most water heaters have a vacation mode, which lowers the temperature to save energy while preventing overheating. If your water heater doesn’t have a vacation mode, you can manually adjust the temperature to a lower setting or turn it off completely.
For tankless water heaters, it’s typically best to power them down when not in use. Check your model’s manual for specific instructions on turning it off or setting it to an energy-saving mode. Not only will this save you money on your energy bill, but it will also prevent unnecessary wear and tear on the unit.
Drain Pipes and Appliances
After you’ve turned off the main water supply, it’s crucial to drain any remaining water from your pipes and appliances. Water left in the system can still cause issues, particularly in cold weather when pipes are more prone to freezing.
Start by opening all faucets and letting the water run until it stops. Don’t forget to drain appliances like dishwashers, washing machines, and even outdoor hoses and sprinkler systems. If you have an irrigation system, make sure it’s properly drained to avoid any damage while you’re away.
This is also a great time to inspect your plumbing for any leaks or weak spots. A small drip that seems like a minor issue can turn into a significant problem if left unchecked during an extended absence.
Check and Insulate Pipes
For those living in areas with colder climates, insulating your pipes is a must before leaving on a trip. Frozen pipes are one of the most common causes of plumbing disasters during the winter months, and they can burst, leading to severe water damage.
Start by checking your pipes for any exposed areas, particularly those located in basements, attics, garages, or along exterior walls. Insulating sleeves or foam pipe covers can be easily installed to help protect them from the cold.
If you’re expecting extremely low temperatures while you’re away, consider keeping the thermostat set to a minimum of 55°F to help keep the pipes warm. Preventative measures like these can make all the difference in protecting your home from freezing pipes and the damage they cause.
Install a Water Leak Detection System
For added peace of mind, consider installing a water leak detection system. These systems are designed to alert you in real-time if a leak is detected, sending notifications directly to your smartphone.
Some advanced systems can even shut off the water automatically when a leak is detected, minimizing potential damage. Water leak detection systems are an excellent investment, especially for frequent travelers, as they allow you to monitor your home remotely and respond quickly in case of an issue. The upfront cost is relatively minor compared to the potential expense of cleaning up after a major leak.
Consider Shutting Off Water to Appliances
Even with the main water valve turned off, it’s a good idea to shut off water to specific appliances that use water regularly, like dishwashers, washing machines, and ice makers. These appliances can still be at risk of leaks or malfunction, so taking an extra precaution can save you from coming home to a waterlogged floor.
To shut off the water to these appliances, locate the small valves connected to their water supply lines—usually found behind or beneath the appliances. Simply turn them off by rotating them clockwise. This ensures that no water can flow to these appliances while you’re away, reducing the risk of a plumbing emergency.
Check Your Sump Pump (If Applicable)
If your home has a sump pump, it’s crucial to ensure it’s in good working condition before leaving on a trip. Sump pumps are designed to remove water from your basement or crawlspace, but if they fail while you’re away, you could end up with a flooded basement.
Test the pump by pouring a bucket of water into the sump pit. The pump should activate and start draining the water immediately. If it doesn’t, you may need to have it serviced before you leave. This quick test can save you from coming home to a serious water damage situation.
Schedule a Professional Plumbing Inspection
If you’re planning a longer trip, or if you haven’t had your plumbing inspected in a while, consider scheduling a professional plumbing inspection before you leave. A licensed plumber can identify potential issues like leaks, corrosion, or blockages that you may not notice on your own.
Having a professional inspection gives you peace of mind, knowing that your home’s plumbing is in top shape before your departure. A trained plumber will also be able to recommend any additional steps you should take to keep your plumbing safe while you’re away.
Clear Drains and Dispose of Food Properly
Before heading out the door, take a few minutes to clear your drains, especially in the kitchen. Clogs that form while you’re away can create unpleasant smells and potentially lead to blockages.
Make sure you dispose of any food waste properly and avoid putting fats, oils, or fibrous materials down the drain. If you use a garbage disposal, run it with cold water to clear out any remaining food particles. A little prevention can go a long way in ensuring your kitchen is clean and odor-free when you return.
Turn Off Outdoor Faucets
Lastly, don’t forget to turn off and disconnect any outdoor faucets and hoses. These can drip or leak, wasting water and potentially causing damage over time. In colder months, it’s especially important to drain outdoor pipes to prevent them from freezing and bursting.
Disconnecting hoses and turning off outdoor faucets is a quick and easy step that can help protect your home from water waste and damage while you’re away.
Taking the time to prepare your home’s plumbing before a trip is well worth the effort. By following these tips—shutting off the main water supply, draining pipes, insulating exposed areas, and installing a leak detection system—you can leave your home with confidence, knowing it’s protected from water-related disasters.
If you’re planning an extended trip, consider scheduling a professional plumbing inspection or investing in a water leak detection system for added peace of mind. A little preparation goes a long way toward ensuring you return to a dry, problem-free home!
