The Ultimate Pre-Vacation Plumbing Checklist
Do you have vacation plans this summer? Between booking flights, finding the perfect location to stay, and planning a full itinerary, many homeowners can get caught up in the frenzy that is vacation planning. Before you roll your suitcase out the door, you’ll want to ensure your plumbing system is in tip-top shape for your soon-to-be-vacant home.
After leaving town for a few days, the last thing you want to return home to is a plumbing disaster. We’re here to share the most helpful steps that will set your plumbing system up for success before your departure. Keep reading to learn more!
Adjust the Water Heater
If no one is home, there’s really no need for a constant hot water supply. Leaving the water heater on its typical settings while the house is vacant will become a massive waste of both energy and hot water. Make sure to locate the dial on the base of the unit to turn it off or on “vacation mode.”
Turning your water heater off will not only help you save on next month’s utility costs but will also prevent any unwanted plumbing mishaps. You’ll want to avoid a full-powered water heater in an empty home in the event that a repair becomes needed while you’re away. If you’re leaving for a few days and are hesitant to turn the unit completely off, simply turn the water heater down to the lowest setting available to conserve energy.
Shut off the Water Supply
Trust us; no one likes to return home from a relaxing trip to a water catastrophe in their home. When you leave the main water supply on, there’s a possibility that something could go amiss while the house is vacant, leading to devastating damages and extensive plumbing repairs.
First, locate the main water valve. In most homes, the valve is typically found in the basement and appears as a lever or wheel-shaped knob. Turn it off and run a faucet to double-check that the water is shut off completely. Although this may seem like a simple step, remembering to shut off the water is crucial. If a pipe were to burst or a fixture is loosened while you’re away, there will not be any water flooding the home.
Test the Sump Pump
If your home has a sump pump, you’ll want to make sure it’s in good working condition before you leave for your trip. The summer season is full of unforeseen weather. One single rainy day can increase the risk of a flooded basement or water damage.
Your sump pump works to prevent rainwater from entering your basement or crawl spaces. However, a sump pump that is out of order can allow the water to enter your home and pose the risk of flooding and even mold growth.
To test your sump pump, run some water through it! Fill the unit with enough water to elevate the float until it flips on. If the pump does not activate, your sump pump may require professional repair. On the flip side, if the pump is activated, it should remove almost all of the water from the pit.