How to Secure the Plumbing System Before Going on an Extended Vacation
In the summer, there’s nothing like getting out of town for a week or two, whether to escape the heat or visit some exotic destination on the bucket list for ages. And in the middle of that relaxation, it’s not uncommon to be struck by thoughts of what could happen to the house while it sits empty. Did the back door get locked? Did the garage door get closed? What if a pipe bursts and the home gets flooded?
People usually remember to lock the doors and close the garage before heading out for vacation. However, only some people consider securing the plumbing in case of unforeseen disasters. When things go wrong with the plumbing in an empty house, they can do much more damage before anyone notices or the homeowners return. So, this article will explain how homeowners can secure their plumbing for prolonged stints away from home!
Shut off the Main Water Supply Valve
When a water leak or burst pipe occurs, the key is to catch it and turn the water off as quickly as possible. If no one is home to do this, the resulting water damage or flooding can be catastrophic, especially if it’s days or weeks before anyone notices. That’s why it’s a good idea to turn off the home’s main water shutoff valve before leaving town.
The main water shutoff valve is usually inside a garage or basement, or near the water meter. Turning this valve off will prevent any water from flowing to the home’s plumbing, so if a pipe springs a leak or bursts, flooding, high water bills, and costly water damage can be avoided, giving homeowners peace of mind while they are away.
Turn off the Water Heater
Homeowners should also consider draining and turning off their water heater before going on a long vacation – or, at the very least, turning the temperature down. Conventional water heaters work by keeping a large water tank at a certain temperature around the clock. If the water heater is off or the thermostat is dialed back to a lower temperature, less energy will be wasted when nobody is home to use hot water.
In addition, if the water heater malfunctions or develops a leak, serious water damage could ensue if no one is around to address the issue. Gas leaks or issues with the burners or pilot light could present fire hazards in gas-powered water heaters. Shutting off and draining the unit can help prevent these dangers during a prolonged absence.
Make Sure There Are No Unresolved Issues
Homeowners can check the plumbing system for any problems before leaving for peace of mind. Suppose they’ve noticed that drains are draining slowly or there are any signs of leaks (dripping faucets, mysterious sounds of running water, low water pressure, etc.). In that case, fixing these issues before leaving on vacation is best to prevent the issue from worsening or causing damage.
Of course, it’s not always possible for homeowners to spot everything, so homeowners should consider getting a plumbing inspection and maintenance from a professional before their long vacation. Plumbers can detect and repair problems the untrained eye may not catch. They can also recommend case-specific solutions for securing the plumbing for vacations and perform routine maintenance tasks to keep the plumbing system healthy.
About Roman Plumbing and Air Inc
Roman Plumbing and Air Inc has been serving the New Port Richey community for over 20 years. They offer upfront pricing, prompt service, and personal attention. Call them for plumbing services in New Port Richey, FL.
