Vacation usually means getting out of the house and leaving the everyday to-do list behind. But before you load the car and lock the door, take a few minutes to check your plumbing.
A leak or slow drain may not seem urgent when you are home, but leaving it unattended for several days can turn it into a bigger problem. A quick plumbing check before your trip can help you avoid coming home to a mess.
Look for Leaks Around the House
Start with the places where leaks are easiest to spot. Check underneath sinks, around toilets, near the water heater, and around exposed pipes. Look for damp spots, puddles, dripping faucets, or water stains.
Pay attention to anything that seems different from normal. Maybe a faucet has started dripping or the toilet seems to run longer than usual. Take care of those problems before you leave rather than giving them days to get worse.
It’s also a good time to check your home for leaks as part of your regular home maintenance.
Take Care of Slow Drains
Don’t put off fixing a slow drain until after you return from vacation.
If water is draining slowly from the kitchen sink, bathroom sink, shower, or bathtub, there could be a developing blockage. It may not have caused a backup yet, but it is better to deal with a slow drain while you are still home. If basic cleaning does not help or the same drain keeps slowing down, have it checked before you leave.
Know Where Your Main Shutoff Valve Is
If you are going to be away for an extended period, shutting off the main water supply can limit the amount of water that could escape if a pipe or fixture develops a leak while you are gone.
Before your trip, make sure you know where the main shutoff valve is and how to operate it. If your home has automatic systems, such as a lawn irrigation system, check how they are connected before shutting off the water. If you are unsure what should stay on, consult a plumber.
Check the Water Heater
Your water heater will not have much to do while everyone is away. Depending on the type of system you have, you may be able to use a vacation setting or adjust its operation during your trip.
Check the manufacturer’s instructions before changing anything. If you notice moisture or puddling around the unit, have it checked before you leave rather than waiting until you return.
It is also smart to check your plumbing before heading out on vacation, especially if you will be gone for an extended period.
Prepare for Unexpected Storms
Storms can bring heavy rain while you are miles away. If your home has a sump pump, test it before leaving and make sure the discharge line is free of obstructions. If you have a backup system, check that it is ready to work if the power goes out.
It is also worth checking your garden hose and spigot for leaks before you leave. A small problem outside may not seem urgent, but you do not want to leave it running while the house is empty.
Do One Last Walk-Through
Before you lock the door, take one last look around to make sure the faucets are off, the toilets are not running, and everything looks as it should.
If a family member, friend, or neighbor will be checking on your house, show them where the main shutoff valve is. That way, they can turn off the water quickly if they discover a plumbing problem while you are away.
A few minutes of preparation can make coming home from vacation much easier. If you find a leak, slow drain, water heater concern, or another plumbing issue before your trip, Putman Plumbing can help you take care of it before you go. Contact us to get your home’s plumbing ready for your time away.