How to Prep Plumbing for Extended Vacations

Going on an extended vacation can be a thrilling adventure, but before you leave your home unattended, it’s important to take steps to ensure your plumbing is prepared for your absence. From protecting pipes during the frigid winter months to adjusting your water heater to conserve energy, there are essential actions you should consider to safeguard your home from potential plumbing issues while you’re away.

Preparing Your Plumbing for a Long Vacation

As you pack your bags and plan your itinerary, don’t forget about your home’s plumbing system. Preparing your plumbing for your travel involves a few crucial steps to prevent damage and ensure peace of mind during your trip:

1. Turn Off the Main Water Supply: The first step in vacation-proofing your plumbing is to turn off the main water supply. This helps prevent potential leaks or flooding in case of a plumbing issue while you’re away. Leaks can cause significant damage and lead to costly repairs, so this simple step is vital.
2. Winterize Your Plumbing: If you’re traveling during the winter months, winterizing your plumbing is a must. This process involves adding antifreeze to plumbing fixtures to prevent standing water from freezing and causing pipes to burst. Special attention should be paid to toilets, sink traps, and any other fixtures that could harbor standing water. A professional plumber can perform this task effectively to give you added peace of mind.
3. Set Water Heater to Vacation Mode: Modern water heaters often come equipped with a “vacation mode” feature. This setting allows the water heater to operate at its lowest energy consumption level while still preventing water from cooling completely. Lowering the setting on your water heater saves energy and reduces the risk of the water heater malfunctioning during your absence.
4. Seal Gaps and Cracks: Before you leave, inspect your home for any gaps or cracks, particularly around pipes that run to the exterior of your house. Seal these areas to prevent cold air from entering and causing pipes to freeze, which is a common issue during winter months.
5. Regular Inspections: Consider having a trusted neighbor or friend check your home periodically. They can ensure that everything is running smoothly and spot any issues before they escalate. Alternatively, hiring a property management service might also be an option to keep an eye on your home.
6. Prevent Sewer Gas & Odors: As water in drains evaporates over time, sewer gases can enter your home. To avoid unpleasant odors or potential health risks, you might want to pour a small amount of mineral oil into sink traps to prevent water from evaporating too quickly.

By following these steps, you can focus on enjoying your vacation rather than worrying about the well-being of your home’s plumbing system.

Trust Carlong Plumbing for Peace of Mind

Embarking on a long-awaited vacation should be about relaxation and exploration—not worrying about potential plumbing disasters back home. With the guidance of Carlong Plumbing, you can ensure your home is ready for your absence. Our team of professional plumbers can assist with winterizing your plumbing, setting your water heater to vacation mode, and offering personalized advice specific to your home’s needs.

Contact Carlong Plumbing today to schedule a pre-vacation plumbing checkup. Whether you need a simple inspection or a comprehensive winterization, we’re here to provide expert solutions and peace of mind. Enjoy your vacation to the fullest, knowing your home is in capable hands.