Summer vacations are a time to relax and recharge, but before you lock up and head out, it’s essential to think about your plumbing. Leaving for an extended period can strain your home’s pipes, drains, and appliances. Leaky pipes or running toilets could end up causing significant damage while you’re gone. Taking simple precautions can save you from coming home to an unpleasant surprise.
At Childers Air Plumbing & Electric, in Beckley, WV, we’re here to help you take the right steps to protect your plumbing before you hit the road.
Shut Off Your Water Supply
Before heading off on your summer vacation, shutting off your water supply is smart to avoid any unwanted surprises. While you’re away, even the smallest leak can lead to significant water damage. If a pipe bursts, the water will keep flowing unnoticed, causing a mess that could take a long time to clean up.
To avoid this, locate your main water shut-off valve in your basement, garage, or utility room. Turning off the main valve stops water from entering your home entirely. This is especially important if you’re leaving for an extended period. You won’t have to worry about a small drip from a forgotten faucet or a malfunctioning appliance. This simple action can give you a sense of security, knowing that your home is protected while you enjoy your time away.
Inspect for Leaks Before You Leave
If you haven’t shut off your water supply, walk through your home and check all plumbing fixtures for leaks. Leaks can be tricky because they might not be noticeable immediately, especially if hidden behind walls or under floors. Small leaks can grow into big problems quickly, so it’s worth doing a quick inspection of your faucets, showerheads, and pipes under sinks.
Look for any water spots or damp areas around your fixtures. If you notice anything, take action before leaving. A quick repair could save you from returning home to a flooded bathroom or kitchen. Don’t forget about your outdoor hoses and irrigation systems. These areas can be easy to overlook but are as vulnerable to leaks as any other part of your plumbing system. Tighten any loose connections and check for possible signs of wear on hoses or sprinkler heads. The last thing you want is a broken hose spraying water while you’re hundreds of miles away.
Make sure you also take a quick look at any standing water in your sinks, bathtubs, or showers before you leave. Even small amounts of stagnant water can create serious plumbing problems when left unchecked. Standing water can indicate a slow drain or clog, and if you’re not there to notice, it can quickly turn into a bigger issue, such as a burst pipe or water backup.
If you notice any standing water, it’s best to address the issue before you leave. Use a plunger or drain cleaner to clear minor blockages. For tough clogs, a plumber can use special tools to clear the blockage. Cleaning your drains regularly helps stop future problems, so it’s a good idea to tackle this before you leave. Getting rid of standing water now can help avoid flooding later.
Check Your Water Heater Settings
Before you head out for vacation, check the settings on your water heater. If you leave it running while you’re gone, it will continue heating water unnecessarily, wasting energy and increasing utility bills. If you have a traditional water heater, you can either turn it off entirely or set it to vacation mode, which keeps the water at a lower temperature to prevent energy waste.
If you have a tankless water heater, ensure it’s running smoothly before heading out. These systems don’t store hot water, so there’s no need to turn them off. But it’s still smart to check for issues like sediment buildup or gas supply problems to avoid surprises. You don’t want to return to a cold shower after your long flight home.
Avoid Keeping Water Running in Unattended Areas
It might be tempting to leave your sprinklers or garden hoses running while you’re away to keep your lawn looking good. But this can be risky. Leaking hoses, broken irrigation systems, or outdoor pipes freezing in cold weather can cause water damage, especially if you’re not there to notice the problem.
Before leaving, make sure any outdoor water systems are turned off and fully functioning. Check your irrigation systems for leaks, cracks, or other issues. If you have an automatic sprinkler system, think about setting it to run on a timer or unplugging it entirely while you’re gone. These precautions will help protect your home from unexpected water damage while you’re away.
Monitor Your Home’s Humidity
Humidity can be a sneaky culprit when it comes to plumbing problems, especially during the summer months. High humidity can cause condensation to form around pipes and appliances, leading to rust and mold growth. A damp environment is ideal for mildew and mold to thrive, and it can spread through your plumbing system.
Consider running a dehumidifier while you’re away, especially if your home tends to get sticky during hot weather. Make sure your air conditioning system is set to maintain a comfortable humidity level in your absence. Keep an eye on areas like the basement and attic, where moisture can easily collect and damage pipes, insulation, and drywall. If you have a crawl space, it might also benefit from some ventilation to keep the air dry.
Don’t Forget Your Home’s Exterior Plumbing
Your home’s exterior plumbing system is just as important to monitor as the interior. Outdoor pipes, faucets, and hoses are prone to damage, especially when exposed to the elements. During the summer, you may be dealing with increased irrigation use or sprinkler systems, which can result in leaks or even bursts if left unchecked. Make sure that all outdoor faucets are tightly closed and check your garden hoses for any signs of cracks or wear.
If you have an irrigation system, give it a quick inspection for any leaks or broken parts. A leak could lead to water waste or flooding while you’re away. If you have an automatic sprinkler system, consider turning it off or setting it to run on a timer while you’re away. It’s better to avoid having your sprinklers run nonstop and risk flooding or water damage.
Set Up a Plumbing Backup Plan
Emergencies can happen, even when you take all the right precautions. For peace of mind, it’s a good idea to have a backup plan in place. Ask a trusted neighbor, friend, or family member to keep an eye on your home while you’re gone. They can check in on your plumbing system and make sure everything is running smoothly. If something unexpected happens, they’ll be able to act quickly and alert you or a professional.
Protect Your Home for a Worry-Free Vacation
You can enjoy your vacation without worrying about plumbing issues at home by taking a few proactive steps. If you’re unsure or need a professional to double-check everything, the plumbing service team at Childers Air Plumbing & Electric is ready to help. Keep your vacation stress-free by letting us help protect your plumbing today. We also help homeowners with routine maintenance, emergency repairs, and system upgrades.
Contact Childers Air Plumbing & Electric today!
