Vacation plans usually focus on packing and planning flights. You will also need to find someone to feed the pets. But your plumbing should get a bit of attention before you leave. A small leak or a stuck valve can turn into a major mess while no one is home to catch it. Taking a few minutes to prep your home’s plumbing can help you avoid coming back to water damage or a surprise repair bill.
Simple Steps Before You Leave
The most effective move is also the easiest, turn off the main water supply. If no one is using water while you are away, there’s no reason to leave it running. This prevents pressure from building up in old pipes or fixtures that could fail. If someone is staying at the house, at least shut off the water supply to appliances that won’t be in use, like the washing machine or dishwasher. Give everything a quick check. Look under sinks for damp spots or corrosion. If you spot anything wet or starting to rust, take care of it before leaving. Test the toilets to make sure they flush and stop filling the way they should. A running toilet can waste hundreds of gallons and drive up your water bill.
Check Your Home Thoroughly
Be sure to check your home for other small things you can do to prevent plumbing issues. It is a smart idea to clear your drains. Pouring a mix of baking soda and vinegar followed by hot water helps reduce odors and buildup. For the kitchen, flush the garbage disposal with ice cubes and dish soap. This clears any leftover food that might rot while you are away. Lower your water heater setting to “vacation” if it has one. If not, turn it to the lowest heat setting. This saves energy and reduces pressure on the tank. For tankless systems, shut off the water and power to the unit entirely. Do not forget about outdoor plumbing. Detach garden hoses so pressure doesn’t build up, and check that sprinkler systems are working on a timer. A stuck valve or broken sprinkler head can waste a lot of water fast.
Call a Plumber if You Are Unsure
If anything seems off while doing your checks, like water spots, low pressure, or strange noises, it is worth calling a plumber. It does not need to be a big emergency to justify a visit. A quick inspection could catch something you would not have noticed, like a slow leak or a worn-out seal. This kind of check is especially useful if it has been a while since your last plumbing maintenance. Plumbing Idaho Falls can help to address any plumbing problems you might have during vacation season.
Keep It Simple to Avoid the Mess
Preventing plumbing problems does not require a lot of time or money. Most of it comes down to spotting trouble early and knowing when to shut things off. It is easy to overlook pipes and valves when you are focused on travel plans, but giving your plumbing a little attention before you leave can save you from a stressful homecoming.