Preparing your home for a vacation can be stressful, but taking that extra time can make it easier to relax while you’re away. In addition to making other preparations, you’ll want to ensure your plumbing won’t cause problems when no one is home. These tips can help you avoid emergencies and water damage, leaving you to focus on having fun.
Should I Drain My Water Pipes When I Go on Vacation?
If you take good care of your plumbing throughout the year, there’s no reason you have to worry about draining the water from your pipes. Unless you have a leaky seal or a damaged pipe, you shouldn’t have excess water in your pipes. Your plumber can tell you if you’ll need repairs before your trip.
Should I Turn Off the Water Supply When I Go on Vacation?
Even with good plumbing maintenance, you won’t want to leave the main water supply valve open. While you’ll do everything possible to protect the system, a burst pipe or leak can still occur. This is a safety precaution that will help you prevent water damage in your unoccupied house.
Basic Tips to Follow During a Pre-Vacation Inspection
Prepping your house before a vacation won’t require a complex process. Here are a few simple things you can do to keep your plumbing system safer.
Check for the Signs of Leaks
Most people schedule drain maintenance on a regular basis. If you know you’re going away on vacation, request drain cleaning just before your departure. In addition, look for the signs of leaks. Higher water bills, the sound of running water in your walls, and leaky sinks can indicate a problem.
Prompt plumbing repair will help you resolve these issues, so you won’t worry about coming home to flooding or water damage.
Schedule a Plumbing Inspection
The best way to protect your home is by asking your plumber for a full inspection. This will alert you to the need for water heater repairs and other issues. Tell your plumber that you’re planning a vacation. They might offer extra tips to keep your plumbing system in good condition while you’re away.
If your plumber recommends repairs, take the advice seriously. You don’t want to risk coming home to unpleasant surprises.
Test Your Sump Pump
This is also a good time to test your sump pump. Keep your home prepared for rainy weather while you enjoy another part of the world. If you’re unfamiliar with sump pump testing, search “plumber near me” to find qualified help. Your plumber can also inspect the unit as part of the plumbing system inspection.
Ask a Neighbor to Keep an Eye Out for Problems
It’s never safe to assume your home won’t need emergency plumbing while your house is vacant. There are many good reasons to ask a trusted neighbor or family member to keep an eye on your property. If they do discover an emergency situation, make sure they know which plumbing company to call.
Start With a Pre-Vacation Plumbing Inspection
When you work with Daigle Plumbing, Heating & Cooling, we’ll make sure your plumbing system is ready for your absence. We’ll provide a comprehensive inspection to catch problems early, and we’ll offer the best options to deal with repairs before you leave. Contact us to schedule service today!
