How to Maintain Your Plumbing During Vacation: Tips for Homeowners

Heading out for a vacation is exciting, but don’t forget to take a few precautions to protect your home’s plumbing while you’re away. Plumbing issues can quickly escalate when you’re not around to notice, so it’s crucial to ensure your plumbing system is ready before you leave. Here are some essential plumbing maintenance tips to prevent problems and ensure your home stays safe while you’re enjoying your time off.

1. Turn Off the Water Supply

One of the easiest ways to prevent plumbing disasters while you’re away is by turning off the main water supply to your home. This can help prevent potential leaks, bursts, or flooding caused by appliances or pipes that malfunction in your absence.

Tip: Locate your main water shut-off valve and turn it off before you leave for vacation. This will prevent water from flowing to your pipes and reduce the risk of water damage.

2. Check for Leaks Before You Go

Before leaving, it’s important to check your plumbing fixtures for leaks. A small drip that you may not notice could escalate into a larger issue while you’re gone, leading to water damage.

Tip: Inspect faucets, toilets, and water-using appliances like dishwashers and washing machines for signs of leaks. Tighten connections or replace worn seals if needed.

3. Set Your Water Heater to Vacation Mode

Many modern water heaters have a “vacation mode” setting, which reduces energy consumption while you’re away. This prevents your water heater from working overtime when no one is home to use hot water.

Tip: Set your water heater to vacation mode or turn it off completely to save energy and prevent unnecessary wear and tear while you’re on vacation.

4. Empty the Ice Maker and Dishwasher

If your refrigerator has an ice maker, consider emptying it before you leave. Water supply lines to ice makers are often small and can leak over time. Additionally, empty your dishwasher to avoid any unwanted odors or the chance of a backup.

Tip: Disconnect the water supply to your ice maker to prevent potential leaks while you’re away.

5. Ask a Neighbor to Check on Your Plumbing

If you’re going to be away for an extended period, ask a trusted neighbor or friend to check on your plumbing every few days. They can ensure everything is running smoothly and address any issues before they become major problems.

Prepare Your Plumbing Before Heading Out

By taking a few simple steps to maintain your plumbing before leaving for vacation, you can avoid the hassle of dealing with plumbing issues upon your return. Whether it’s turning off the water supply, checking for leaks, or adjusting your water heater, taking proactive measures ensures that your home remains safe and dry while you’re away.

Contact Us for Plumbing Maintenance Services

For plumbing inspections and maintenance services before you leave for vacation, contact 1st Choice Plumbing, Flood & Restoration at 866-437-0205. We’re here to help protect your home while you enjoy your time away.