Plumbing Priorities Before You Leave on Vacation

Got a vacation coming up? Then you’re probably deep in planning mode! But between securing your hotel and making activity reservations, it’s easy to forget about how to keep your house safe while you’re gone.

Over the years, we’ve gotten a number of calls from people returning from vacation, only to discover a big plumbing issue. We certainly don’t want this to be you! 

A small leak or malfunction while you’re away can turn into major water damage by the time you return. The good news? A few simple steps can protect your home and give you true peace of mind while you’re relaxing.

Plumbing Priorities #1: Shut Off the Water to Your Home

Yes, preventing a major issue can really be this simple. If a pipe bursts or a fitting fails while you're gone, turning off the water can prevent extensive flooding. Don’t know where your main shut-off is? That’s okay! Typically, it’s located where the water line enters your home. This is often in the basement or crawlspace, or near your water meter, in regions with cooler seasons, such as New York.

If you’re unsure where your main shut-off valve is, take a moment now to locate it. Test it out, too. Turn it gently off and back on to ensure it operates smoothly. If it’s stiff or corroded, consider having it serviced so it doesn’t fail in the event you ever need it.

If you don’t want to shut off the entire house (for example, if you have automatic sprinklers or someone checking on pets), you can at least shut off water to specific appliances like washing machines or toilets.

Plumbing Priorities #2: Check Your Sump Pump and Water Heater

If your home has a sump pump, test it before you leave for an extended period. This is your home’s first line of defense against basement flooding. 

Never tested a sump pump before? Simply pour a bucket of water into the sump pit and confirm the pump activates and drains properly. Also, ensure that the discharge line is clear and directed away from your foundation.

If you have a battery backup sump pump, check that the battery is charged and working. A backup system is especially important during storm season.

In addition to your sump pump, give your water heater a quick inspection before you leave on vacation. Check around the system for any signs of leaks, corrosion, or pooling water around the base. You might also consider using your water heater’s “vacation mode” setting if yours has one.

This setting helps reduce the unit’s energy consumption by lowering the water temperature while you’re away.

Plumbing Priorities #3: Have Someone Check on Your Home

If you’re lucky enough to have a friend or neighbor you trust check on your house while you’re away, take advantage of it! This is one of the best ways you can help prevent the unexpected from happening while you’re gone. 

Ask them to do things like:

• Look for signs of leaks or water around fixtures

• Listen for running toilets

• Check the basement for sump pump activity

• Open cabinets to help circulate warm air on cold days

• Make sure everything appears normal

Vacations should be relaxing, not stressful. By taking a few simple plumbing precautions before you leave, you can easily protect your home from unexpected issues.

Remember: If you’re unsure about your shut-off valve, sump pump, or water heater, our team is happy to inspect your system before your trip. 

Always remember these pre-vacation plumbing priorities and safe travels!