Preparing Plumbing and Water Heating Before Leaving for Vacation
When planning a vacation, it’s easy to overlook the plumbing and water heating systems in the rush of packing and planning.
However, taking the time to prepare these systems can save you from potential disasters and unnecessary energy usage while you’re away.
Essential Steps to Take Before You Leave for Vacation
Turn Off the Main Water Supply
Turning off the main water supply is the most effective way to prevent water damage from potential leaks while you are away. This step is crucial if you will be gone for more than a week, as it ensures that in the event of a pipe burst, water does not continue to flow, which could cause significant damage.
In areas where temperatures drop below freezing, turning off the main water supply can prevent frozen pipes and the extensive damage that leaky pipes can cause.
The main water shut-off valve is typically located near the water meter if your meter is outside, or where the main water line enters the home if the meter is inside. In colder climates, it’s usually located in a basement or a utility area to prevent freezing.
Before leaving, test the valve to ensure it completely stops water flow. Old valves may be stiff or could have sediment build-up, which can prevent them from closing fully.
If you’re unable to shut off the water yourself or encounter a problem with the valve, it’s wise to contact a professional plumber to handle the situation before you leave.
Drain the Pipes
After shutting off the main water supply, open all faucets (both indoors and outdoors) to drain the remaining water from the pipes. This step is crucial in closed plumbing systems where pressure can build up if the water inside is heated by various factors. Draining the pipes relieves this pressure and prevents stress on plumbing joints and fixtures.
In colder climates, any water remaining in the pipes can freeze, often leading to pipes bursting as the water expands when it turns to ice. This is a common and costly home maintenance issue in winter.
Furthermore, stagnant water can become a breeding ground for bacteria. Draining the pipes ensures that old water doesn’t sit in your system, thereby reducing health risks upon your return.
Draining Instructions
- Open All Faucets: Start with the highest faucet in your home and work your way to the lowest point. This helps gravity pull water from the system. Don’t forget to include both hot and cold water controls.
- Flush Toilets: Flush each toilet to remove water from the tanks and bowls. Consider adding antifreeze to the bowls to prevent any remaining water from freezing in very cold temperatures (make sure to use non-toxic antifreeze designed for plumbing systems).
- Drain Appliances: If you have water-using appliances like dishwashers or washing machines, run them through a short cycle to clear out the water lines.
- Outdoor Spigots and Irrigation Systems: Don’t forget to drain outdoor spigots and irrigation systems as these are often the first to freeze. If applicable, use compressed air to blow water out of irrigation lines.
Check for Leaks
Before leaving, inspect visible pipes, faucets, and the base of toilets for any signs of leaks. Addressing these issues beforehand can prevent water damage and save on water bills.
Checking for leaks is crucial; even a small leak can lead to significant water damage over time, especially if it goes unnoticed for the duration of your vacation. Water can seep into flooring, walls, and foundations, leading to costly repairs.
Furthermore, a dripping faucet or a running toilet can waste a surprising amount of water. Persistent leaks also create moist environments that are ideal for mold and mildew growth, compromising indoor air quality and potentially causing health issues.
How to Check
To effectively check for leaks begin with a thorough visual inspection of all accessible pipes, including those under sinks, behind toilets, and in areas like basements or attics.
Use a flashlight to look for signs of moisture, rust, or corrosion. Inspect all household faucets for drips or leaks, even when they are turned off, and check the base and tank of toilets for any signs of moisture or constant water flow that could indicate a leak.
Additionally, perform a dye test on toilet tanks by adding food coloring and waiting to see if the color seeps into the bowl, which would indicate a leak in the flapper or valve seal. Check water connections to appliances like dishwashers and washing machines for any puddles, dampness, or damaged hoses.
Don’t forget to examine outdoor spigots, hose bibs, and irrigation systems for any leaks or irregular water discharge, which can also indicate issues that need attention.
Turn Off the Water Heater
To turn off an electric water heater, locate the specific circuit breaker in your home’s electrical panel and switch it to the “off” position, effectively cutting all power to the unit. Although not necessary, you can also adjust the thermostat to its lowest setting as an additional precaution. Ensure the area around the electrical panel is dry before handling it to prevent any risk of electrical shock.
For gas water heaters, you can use the “vacation” setting on the thermostat, which keeps the pilot light on but stops the water heater from heating water, thereby conserving energy while making it easy to restore hot water upon your return.
Alternatively, you can turn off the gas supply completely by turning the gas valve to the “off” position, which will also extinguish the pilot light. If you choose to turn off the gas, remember that you will need to relight the pilot light when you return, following the manufacturer’s instructions or seeking professional help if necessary.
Turning off a tankless water heater is even easier than with the above tank-type models. For electric models, simply switch off the circuit breaker dedicated to the unit. For gas models, turn the gas valve to the “off” position.
Consider the Sump Pump
If wet weather is expected during your absence, it is important to check that your sump pump is in good working condition to avoid the risk of flooding.
Begin by pouring a bucket of water or more into the sump pit. This should raise the water level high enough for the float switch to trigger the pump automatically. The pump should then engage promptly, remove the water from the pit, and shut off afterward.
If you have a battery-operated backup pump, verify that the battery is fully charged and in good condition.
And if you have a water-powered sump pump ensure it is functioning correctly by manually activating it if possible, to check its operation. Since these pumps require a consistent flow of water to work, confirm that there are no interruptions or issues with your home’s water supply that could impact the pump’s effectiveness.
Adjust the Thermostat
If no one will be home, adjust your thermostat to a temperature that minimizes energy usage but protects your home from humidity and freezing temperatures.
In winter, setting the thermostat to around 55°F (13°C) is usually adequate to prevent freezing. In summer, setting it higher to around 78°F (26°C) can help control humidity and mold growth.
Unblock Drains
Before you head out on your vacation, it’s essential to ensure that all the drains in your home—including kitchen sinks, bathroom sinks, showers, bathtubs, and any utility sinks—are free from debris to prevent odors and potential backups.
Start by pouring boiling water down each drain to loosen any accumulated gunk. Follow this with a cleaning mixture: add half a cup of baking soda into each drain, then pour in a cup of white vinegar. The combination creates a fizzing action that helps break down grease, hair, and other blockages. Allow this solution to work for about 15 minutes before flushing the drains with more boiling water, ensuring they are thoroughly cleared and maintaining the health of your plumbing without harsh chemicals.
In kitchens, especially those with garbage disposals, enhance your routine by grinding ice cubes and coarse salt through the disposal to sharpen the blades and clear residual food particles. Running cold water while grinding lemon or orange peels can also help remove any lingering odors and leave a fresh scent.
For bathroom drains, which often collect hair and soap scum, you may need to use a plunger or a plumber’s snake if the vinegar and baking soda method does not completely clear the blockages.
Secure Outdoor Plumbing
Begin by disconnecting, draining, and storing any garden hoses to prevent them from freezing and cracking. It’s also crucial to cover outdoor faucets with insulated covers, which provide a barrier against the cold and help prevent the internal mechanisms from freezing and potentially bursting.
Additionally, it’s wise to check and drain any irrigation systems you might have. Water left in irrigation lines can freeze, leading to damaged pipes or fittings.
To properly drain your system, shut off the water supply to the irrigation system and use the manual drain valves to release any water inside the pipes. For systems without manual valves, you may need to use compressed air to blow the water out. Taking these precautions will help ensure that your outdoor plumbing remains intact and functional, avoiding costly repairs when you return.
Ask Someone to Check Your Home
If possible, ask a friend or a neighbor to check on your house periodically to ensure everything is in order. They can also run faucets briefly to keep water in traps from evaporating, which can prevent sewer gases from entering the home.
Conclusion
By meticulously following these steps to prepare your plumbing and water heating systems, as well as securing your outdoor plumbing, you can greatly reduce the risk of water-related issues while you’re away. This comprehensive preparation not only protects your home from potential damage due to freezing temperatures, leaks, or blockages but also conserves energy and reduces utility bills.
With these preventive measures in place, you can relax and enjoy your vacation with peace of mind, confident that your home will remain safe and sound in your absence.
