Plumbing Tasks to Handle Before Leaving for Vacation
Leaving for vacation should give you peace of mind—not worry about what’s happening at home. Plumbing issues can occur unexpectedly, and even small leaks can cause significant damage when left unattended. Before you head out, taking a few preventative steps ensures your home stays safe and dry.
Turn Off the Main Water Supply
If you’ll be gone for more than a couple of days, shutting off your main water valve is the simplest way to prevent leaks and flooding. Without water pressure in the system, even failing pipes or loose fittings can’t cause damage.
If you prefer not to shut off the entire system, at least turn off water to appliances such as:
• Washing machines
• Dishwashers
• Toilets
• Outdoor spigots
Check for Existing Leaks
Inspect sinks, toilets, water heaters, and exposed pipes for moisture. Even a small drip can escalate into a major problem when no one is home to catch it.
Set Your Water Heater to Vacation Mode
Most modern water heaters include a vacation or low-heat setting. This reduces energy use while still preventing freezing or bacterial growth.
If your heater does not have this feature, you can turn the temperature down manually.
Clear Your Garbage Disposal
Run cold water and the disposal for several seconds before leaving. A clean disposal prevents odors from developing while you’re away.
Inspect and Test Sump Pumps
If you have a sump pump, pour water into the basin to make sure it activates. A failing sump pump during rainfall can lead to basement flooding.
Disconnect Outdoor Hoses
Leaving hoses connected can cause water to freeze in the faucet line, leading to pipe damage.
Final Thoughts
A quick plumbing check before traveling reduces the risk of water damage and ensures you return to a safe, dry home. Investing a few minutes now can save thousands of dollars in repairs later.
