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The holiday season is a time for celebration and travel, but before you leave to visit loved ones or enjoy a festive getaway, it’s crucial to prepare your home’s plumbing system. Proper preparation ensures you return to a safe and dry home.
Drain The System
One of the best ways to prevent water damage while you’re away is to turn off the main water supply. This stops water from flowing into your pipes, reducing the risk of leaks or pipe bursts. Locate your main water shut-off valve, which is typically found in the basement, utility room, or near the meter, and turn the valve clockwise to shut off the water. Test your faucets to ensure the water supply is completely off. If shutting off the main water isn’t feasible, consider turning off water to individual appliances like washing machines or toilets.
Before leaving, thoroughly inspect your plumbing system for any leaks or drips. Check under sinks, around toilets, and near water heaters. Tighten loose connections, replace worn-out washers or seals, and address any noticeable issues to prevent them from worsening in your absence.
After shutting off the water supply, consider draining the pipes to provide extra peace of mind. Open all faucets, starting from the highest point in your home to the lowest, and flush toilets to empty the tanks. Once the water stops running, close the faucets.
If your home has a sump pump, ensure it’s in good working condition to avoid basement flooding during heavy rains or when snow melts and seeps into your basement. Test it by pouring water into the sump pit to confirm it activates and drains properly. A battery backup system is also worth considering if you expect power outages.
Save Energy
Your water heater doesn’t need to stay at full power while you’re away. Set it to “Vacation Mode” if available or manually lower the temperature to conserve energy. You can also turn off the water heater completely if you’re shutting off the main water supply—just consult the manufacturer’s manual first.
Traveling during the winter holidays adds an extra layer of concern for freezing temperatures. Protect exposed pipes by adding insulation and opening cabinet doors under sinks to allow warm air circulation. Keep the thermostat set to at least 50°F to prevent freezing.
Have A Friend Check Up
For extended trips, ask a trusted neighbor or friend to periodically check your home. They can inspect for visible leaks, ensure the heating system is functioning during cold weather, and notify you of any issues promptly. Leaving emergency contact information for your plumber is also a good idea, including their name, phone number, and the location of your main water shut-off valve.
Smart home devices can offer additional peace of mind. Leak detectors can alert you to problems in real-time, smart thermostats can control your home’s temperature remotely, and automatic shut-off valves can stop water flow during emergencies.
By taking these steps, you can enjoy your holiday travels without worrying about potential plumbing issues. A little preparation goes a long way in preventing costly and stressful water damage. Happy holidays and safe travels!
Written By Mainline Plumbing
When something goes wrong with your water, the cause isn’t always obvious. It could be your plumbing, well system or the water itself. Mainline has the experience to look at the whole picture, identify the problem and recommend the right solution.
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