Do you prepare your plumbing before you leave on vacation? Most people don’t, so if you aren’t one of them, you’re not alone.
However, taking just a few minutes to prepare your plumbing before you leave could ultimately save you thousands of dollars in damage.
Water that has gone rogue is one of the most destructive forces that could significantly damage your home. Just one small water leak can quickly turn into a major water intrusion event. This is something that could be easily prevented with just a few simple proactive measures.
Here are eight steps you can take to properly prepare your plumbing so you don’t have to worry about your home while you are away on a vacation for an extended period of time (weeks or months).
1. Turn Off Your Water at the Main
Turning off your water at the main is the best way to prevent any type of plumbing related water intrusion event in your home.
2. Drain Your Pipes
After cutting the water off at the main, run all the faucets to drain the water out of the pipes. Then make sure you remember to turn the faucets back off after they have been drained.
3. Shut Off Your Freezer’s Icemaker
If your freezer has an automatic icemaker turn it off. This will keep it from trying to draw in water while you’re not there.
4. Clean Your Garbage Disposal and Toilets
The garbage disposal and toilets are two areas that will begin to stink after sitting idle for more than a couple of days. The food particles in your garbage disposal will quickly start rotting which will result in bacteria growth, etc.
5. Drain All Exterior Faucets and Disconnect Your Hoses
After you’ve turned your home’s water off, you will also need to turn off the exterior faucets and disconnect your hoses as well.
6. Clean Your Home’s Gutters and Downspouts
A heavy storm, while you are on vacation, could result in any clogged gutters and downspouts to back up into your home or cause a roof leak.
7. Leave Your Washer and Dishwasher Doors Open
Washers and dishwashers both hold a small amount of water even when they are not in use. If you don’t want that stagnant water to begin to smell, just leave the doors open which will allow the water to evaporate. This will also help prevent mold and mildew from forming.
8. Shut Off Your Water Heater
If you own an electric water heater, make sure you shut it off before leaving for vacation. If you have a gas water heater, set it to vacation mode. This will prevent unwanted water from cycling through while you’re gone.
What’s Next?
If you have any plumbing needs or would like a professional to check your plumbing before you leave for vacation, please Contact Us today. J.W. Freeman Plumbing, LLC is a full-service Gainesville residential and commercial plumbing company that specializes in plumbing remodels, repiping, and other plumbing repair and replacement services.
