Plumbing Preparations When Going On Vacation
Going on vacation should be a welcome break from the humdrum and stress of daily life – and you shouldn’t come home to find your home in disrepair!
There are many steps and items you need to tick off your list before going on vacation and leaving your plumbing system unattended.
Keep reading as we discuss your plumbing checklist before going on vacation so everything’s in perfect working order when you come home. Caldwell Plumbing is your go-to plumbing company serving the Durham region and surrounding areas. Give us a call today for expert advice on your system.
Plumbing Tips When Going On Vacation: Your Plumbing Checklist
Here are our top plumbing tips when going on vacation to help keep your home in tip-top shape, even when you’re not home. Include these tips on your pre-vacation plumbing checklist!
Preventing Sewer Backups
A sewer backup is the last thing you need when you return home from your holiday – it’s smelly, unsanitary, and dangerous. You wouldn’t be able to spend time at home as the health risks would be too great.
Here are the best practices for preventing sewer backups when you’re gone:
● Drain maintenance – maintaining your drains and removing blockages will allow water to flow freely without backing up and causing a smelly and unsanitary incident. Gutters, downspouts, and drains should all be included in your drain maintenance routine.
● Septic tanks and sewer lines – regularly maintain your sewer lines and septic tanks by enlisting the help of a professional. With the dangers of raw sewage, it’s best not to attempt this yourself. Your plumber will be able to inspect and clean your plumbing to remove and reduce blockages.
Preventing Burst Pipes
A burst pipe doesn’t just mean your home will be soaking wet when you return – it also puts the structural integrity of your home at risk. Here’s how to prevent a pipe from bursting when you go on holiday:
● Insulation – insulating your pipes will help keep them warm. Icy water increases in volume, bursting its container, and this could mean a leak if it happens in your pipes. Any exposed pipes should be well-insulated before you leave, especially during the frosty winter months.
● Heating – leave your heating on, even when you’re out, as your water heater won’t become frozen, leading to burst pipes and water damage.
● Drip faucets – allowing your faucets to drip while you’re gone reduces water pressure in your pipes. So, if your water supply freezes for any reason, it will have an outlet to relieve pressure and prevent leaks.
Turning Off The Water
Using your shutoff valves when you go on vacation is a top priority. It reduces the potential for leaks and prevents unnecessary water bills from leaky or left-on faucets. If you have a sprinkler system for your home to prevent fires, you’ll need to leave the water on as a safety precaution.
Get A Plumbing Inspection
Before heading off jet-setting worldwide, it’s best to be aware of any issues with your plumbing system. Have your local plumber perform a plumbing inspection a few weeks before your travels, so you’ve got plenty of time to intervene and address any issues they spot – so you can relax and renew on your trip without a care in the world!
Choose Caldwell Plumbing For Expertise And Friendly Service
Before you go on your travels, it’s essential to consider what needs doing around the house before you go. This includes emptying your trash, switching off all of your lights and appliances, and even checking your plumbing system. Try turning off your water and taking the proper steps to prevent water leaks and sewage backup.
If you need help preparing your home for your travels, you can always count on advice and friendly service from our team at Caldwell Plumbing. We’re happy to help homeowners in the Durham region keep their plumbing systems in good health!
