Why Vacation Plumbing Preparation Matters
Before heading out on vacation, most people remember to pack their bags, stop the mail, and set the alarm. What often gets overlooked is the plumbing system. Leaving a home unattended for days or weeks without proper precautions can lead to expensive surprises. Burst pipes, running toilets, and leaking appliances do not take time off just because you do. Preparing your plumbing system before you travel is one of the smartest ways to avoid coming home to a disaster.
Shut Off the Main Water Valve
Turning off your home’s main water valve is one of the most important steps you can take before going away. This single action helps prevent a variety of potential problems, including burst pipes and unnoticed leaks. If a pipe fails while you are out of town, the water will keep flowing until someone intervenes. Shutting off the main valve eliminates that risk entirely.
If you are not sure where your main shutoff valve is located, take time to find it well before your trip. It is usually found near where the main water line enters your home, often in the basement or utility area. Once it is off, turn on a faucet to release any pressure still in the system.
Inspect for Existing Leaks
A small drip under the sink or a minor trickle from the water heater may seem harmless, but these issues can escalate quickly when left unchecked. Before you leave, inspect all visible plumbing fixtures. Check under sinks, around toilets, behind appliances, and near the water heater. Look for water stains, moisture, or corrosion. Even a slight leak can cause significant damage over a period of days or weeks.
If you notice anything unusual, schedule a plumbing repair before you go. Fixing minor issues now is far easier and more affordable than dealing with major damage after the fact.
Drain Exterior Water Lines
If you are traveling during the colder months, frozen outdoor pipes are a serious concern. Drain all exterior water lines to prevent freezing and potential bursts. Start by disconnecting and draining garden hoses. If your outdoor faucets are not frost free, shut off their interior supply valves and open the exterior taps to drain any remaining water.
Cover hose bibs with insulated faucet covers to help protect them from temperature drops. If you have an irrigation system, consider having it winterized by a professional before the season begins.
Set the Thermostat Correctly
It may be tempting to turn your thermostat down to save energy, but keeping your home too cold while you are away can increase the risk of frozen pipes. Set your thermostat no lower than twelve degrees Celsius to maintain a safe indoor temperature. This will help prevent freezing, especially in basements and crawl spaces where pipes are more exposed.
If you have a smart thermostat, set a vacation mode that maintains steady heating while reducing energy consumption. Many models allow you to monitor and adjust your home’s temperature remotely using your smartphone.
Shut Off Individual Fixtures if Necessary
If you prefer not to shut off your home’s main water supply, you can still reduce your risk by shutting off the valves to individual appliances and fixtures. Toilets, sinks, washing machines, and dishwashers all have accessible shutoff valves nearby. This strategy allows you to limit water access to the most vulnerable areas of your home.
Appliances like your washing machine are particularly prone to hose failures, which can lead to serious flooding. Turning off their water supply is a simple way to avoid an unexpected mess.
Clear Drains and Disposals
Before leaving, clear out drains and garbage disposals to avoid unpleasant smells and clogs when you return. Run cold water through the disposal with a few ice cubes and a small amount of citrus peel to clean and freshen the unit. Check all sinks and showers for slow drainage and address any blockages.
A slow drain can become completely clogged while you are away, leading to backup problems when water flow resumes. Taking care of this in advance helps avoid costly service calls.
Check the Sump Pump
If your home has a sump pump, test it to make sure it is working properly. Pour a bucket of water into the sump pit and watch to see if the pump activates and drains the water effectively. A malfunctioning sump pump can lead to a flooded basement, especially during heavy rain or melting snow.
If you notice any irregular operation or if the pump does not turn on, have it inspected or replaced before your trip. Battery backups are also recommended in case of power outages.
Prevent Sewer Odours
Unused drains can emit unpleasant smells if water evaporates from the traps. To prevent sewer gas from entering your home, run water in all sinks, tubs, and showers before you leave. Consider pouring a small amount of mineral oil into the drains to slow evaporation while you are gone.
Also make sure toilet lids are closed to contain any odors and to prevent water from evaporating too quickly from the bowls.
Have Someone Check In
Even with the best preparations, things can still go wrong. Ask a friend, neighbour, or family member to check in on your home every few days. They can make sure the heat is running, the pipes are not leaking, and that nothing else appears out of place.
If possible, leave a contact number and the name of your preferred plumber so they know who to call in case of an emergency. A quick check-in could save you thousands of dollars and major stress.
Enjoy Your Vacation With Confidence
Properly preparing your plumbing system before a vacation is not just about avoiding leaks. It is about peace of mind. You want to enjoy your time away knowing your home is safe and secure. A few simple steps can prevent serious damage and save you from returning to unexpected headaches.If you are planning a vacation and want professional help inspecting or preparing your home’s plumbing, the team at On Tap Solutions is here to help. We offer seasonal plumbing services and expert advice so you can travel with confidence and return to a home just as you left it.
