How to Care for Your Plumbing During Vacation Time

When you’re preparing for a vacation, it’s easy to focus on packing your bags and getting everything ready for your time away. However, it’s just as important to ensure that your plumbing system is ready for your absence. Properly caring for your plumbing during vacation can help prevent leaks, water damage, and costly repairs when you return.

1. Turn Off the Water Supply

One of the best ways to care for your plumbing during vacation is by turning off the main water supply. This can help prevent any unexpected plumbing emergencies, such as a burst pipe or a running toilet, from causing water damage while you're away. Turning off the water ensures that no leaks will go unnoticed and no water is used while you're not home.

2. Check for Leaks Before You Leave

Before you head out, inspect your plumbing fixtures, pipes, and appliances for any signs of leaks. Look for wet spots around your water heater, under sinks, or near your toilet. If you find any leaks, it’s best to call a professional plumber to repair them before leaving to avoid the potential for water damage in your absence.

3. Empty Your Water Heater

If you’re going to be away for an extended period, it may be a good idea to turn off your water heater or set it to a vacation mode setting. Some water heaters have a setting designed to conserve energy when you’re not home, so the system isn’t running unnecessarily while you're away.

4. Remove All Perishable Items from the Fridge

If you have a refrigerator that’s connected to your plumbing, make sure to remove any food and water from the appliance before you leave. This will prevent any potential leaks or spills that could result in water damage.

5. Set Up a Timer for Your Sump Pump

If you have a sump pump, set it on a timer to ensure it runs periodically while you’re away. This can help prevent flooding in your basement or crawl space, especially if your area is prone to heavy rainfall.

Taking these simple precautions can protect your home from plumbing issues while you're on vacation. If you want to ensure that your plumbing during vacation is properly prepared before you leave, contact ASAP Plumbing. Our expert team can perform a thorough inspection and make sure your plumbing system is ready for your time away.