Tips to Prepare Your Plumbing for Summer Vacation

For many homeowners in Vineland, summer is the season of adventure, with vacation plans taking center stage. From long road trips to serene beach getaways, we often put a lot of thought into our travel plans. However, one aspect of preparation is frequently overlooked but incredibly crucial—plumbing readiness. No one wants to return from a relaxing vacation to find their home flooded or with a plumbing emergency that could have been easily avoided.

Our plumbers at Mr. Rooter Plumbing of South Jersey explore why preparing your plumbing for summer vacation is an essential part of home maintenance. We'll provide you with a complete checklist, including advanced precautions and last-minute tips, so you can ensure your plumbing is as ready for your vacation as you are.

Why Plumbing Preparation is Essential Before Leaving

When you leave your home for an extended period, your plumbing system is at risk of various issues, which can lead to substantial water damage, extensive mold growth, and even a strain on the environment due to wasted water. Taking the time to prepare your plumbing can help save you from these potential headaches and offers several other benefits.

Understanding Potential Risks

The most significant risk is, of course, leaks. Even the smallest drip can lead to significant water wastage in a few days, not to mention the accumulated damage over an entire vacation. Additionally, if a hidden leak is not addressed promptly, you could return home to a mold or mildew infestation.

Benefits of Plumbing Preparation

By shutting off your main water supply, you can have peace of mind that no water is flowing when you're not there. This precaution also saves you money on your water bill. Regularly assessing your plumbing can help prevent bigger issues from occurring, allowing you to relax during your time away.

Plumbing Checklist Before You Depart

Are you unsure where to start when it comes to properly preparing your plumbing system for an extended vacation? Below is a step-by-step guide to get your plumbing ready for your absence.

Shut Off the Main Water Supply

Once you've located your main water shut-off valve, turn it clockwise to close it. This is usually located where the water line enters your home. If you're unsure about your valve or need help, consult a professional plumber at Mr. Rooter Plumbing of South Jersey. Remember to leave some water on for automatic sprinkler systems if you have them.

Check for Leaks and Cracks

Inspect all visible pipes, faucets, and appliances for leaks or any visible signs of damage. Look under sinks, behind toilets, and around your water heater. Address any issues you find before you leave.

Drain the Pipes

After shutting off the water supply, open all the taps in your home to allow any remaining water to drain out. This step is crucial for avoiding any pressure build-up or leaks while you're away.

Adjust Water Heater Settings

Turn your water heater to its lowest setting or to "vacation mode" to save energy. For gas heaters, adjust the gas valve to the "pilot" setting. For electric heaters, you can turn off the breaker.

Prepare Outdoor Plumbing

Disconnect and drain garden hoses. If possible, turn off the water to your outdoor faucets from the inside. This prevents freezing during colder summer nights and leaks due to high pressure.

Advanced Precautions for Extended Vacations

If you plan to be away for a month or longer, you may want to consider a professional inspection of your home's plumbing. A licensed plumber can look for hidden leaks, provide maintenance, and ensure your pipes are in good shape before you leave. This is especially important if your home is a decade old or more, or you have experienced past plumbing issues.

Last-Minute Plumbing Tips

In the hectic pre-vacation bustle, it's easy to forget some essential tasks. Use this last-minute plumbing checklist to stay on track:

• Creating a Pre-Trip Plumbing Checklist: Write down all the actions you need to take, such as turning off valves, and check them off as you go. It helps to be organized, especially when time is short and stress levels are high.
• Emergency Contact Information: Leave the contact information for a trusted plumber with a neighbor or friend who can keep an eye on your home. If a plumbing emergency does occur, you'll be able to handle it remotely with expert assistance.

By following these simple yet effective steps, you ensure that your home and your plumbing system are appropriately taken care of while you're away. It's a little effort that goes a long way in ensuring you come back to a plumbing system that’s completely intact post-vacation.

Enjoy Your Summer Vacation by Enlisting Mr. Rooter Plumbing of South Jersey

While the anticipation of summer getaways often leads to focusing on the trip itself, it's essential to remember the simple routines at home that can avert potential disasters. Incorporating these plumbing preparations into your travel plans results in a secure, maintained living space for you to return to. And if you're short on time, remember that enlisting the help of professionals, such as Mr. Rooter Plumbing of South Jersey, ensures that you can enjoy a plumbing issue-free summer.

Check our team’s availability today and find out how we can help.