Are you getting ready for a vacation? The excitement of visiting a new place or a favorite family destination can sometimes make us forget about the state of our homes. After a great vacation, you should feel recharged with a fresh perspective on life. But returning to a flooded home can quickly shift your mood to frustration and anger.
Let’s look at plumbing points you should double-check before heading out for an extended period.
The Importance of a Pre-Vacation Plumbing Checklist
Whether you're taking a weekend trip or planning a long getaway, taking the time to complete a plumbing checklist before leaving for vacation is important for avoiding issues. By addressing potential problems before they escalate, you’re saving yourself from costly repairs and the stress of dealing with plumbing emergencies while you’re supposed to be relaxing.
Water Heaters
This large tank (in most cases) holds 40-75 gallons of hot water that is always pressurized. Most water heaters last eight to ten years before the tank rusts out, leaks, and ruptures, sending water pouring onto the floor. This water continues to flow until someone manually shuts off the cold-water valve to the home or the water heater. Keep in mind that most of the time, this valve is stuck open because it has not been “exercised” and is therefore useless in an emergency. Do a visual inspection of your water heater to look for water leaks or rust buildup. If your water heater is more than ten years old, consider replacing it before leaving.
Sump Pumps
Sump pumps remove groundwater from around your home on a continuous basis, especially during rain. If power is lost or the pump stops working, your home is at risk of flooding. One can expect to get six to eight years out of a decent sump pump. Having a backup battery is a plus, but keep in mind manufacturers recommend replacing the batteries every three years. Having two pumps in one sump pit is also an advantage, although most people don’t realize the first pump has gone out until the second one has failed. A sump pump system check is a must before departing for an extended amount of time.
Laundry Hoses
Laundry hoses are the hot and cold lines that connect the home’s water supply to the clothes washer. These are most often made of rubber, an inferior choice compared to stainless steel braided hoses. The concern with these hoses is that they are always under pressure and a weak link in the water distribution system. If one of these rubber hoses bursts, water will flood your home. Due to age and condition, consider replacing these hoses and/or shutting off the valves to the washing machine. Visually inspect for rust or leaks at the connections of these hoses.
Flood Control System
For our purposes in this discussion, a flood control system will be considered a backwater valve with or without an ejector pump. These systems protect against the backup of the city’s sewer into your home. During a rainstorm when the sewers and/or streets are overwhelmed with rain a home can experience back flow through their sewer. Therefore, a flood control would be installed. This system needs yearly maintenance to ensure its components are in proper working order. Be sure to have this checked prior to leaving on vacation.
Toilets
A leaky toilet can waste thousands of gallons a year, which equates to dollars going down the drain. There are two main parts in a toilet that fail after six to eight years. These parts control the water coming in and the water going out. While away, these leaky toilets can drain and fill several times a day, causing your water bill to skyrocket. If you hear your toilet running or filling when no one has used it, you need to have it repaired. Turning off the supply valve while you're away will conserve water from a leaky toilet. The above scenario is still an issue when you are home and not on vacation, but it's magnified when the house sits empty.
How Do You Prepare Toilets for a Long Vacation?
Preparing your toilets before you leave is crucial to prevent odors and bacteria buildup. After turning off the water supply, flush each toilet to drain the tank and bowl. Then, clean the bowl thoroughly. You can also place plastic wrap over the toilet bowl to prevent evaporation and keep odors at bay.
Drains
Your drains and garbage disposal can become breeding grounds for bacteria if left uncleaned. Before fully switching to vacation mode, here's how to keep them fresh:
- Clean the Drains: Your plumbing checklist before leaving for vacation should include rinsing your drains. Consider pouring a mixture of vinegar and baking soda down each sink drain, followed by hot water. This can help clear any buildup and keep your drains smelling fresh.
- Run the Garbage Disposal: Run your garbage disposal with some ice cubes and lemon peels to clean the blades and remove any lingering odors.
- Check for Clogs: Make sure all drains are clear of clogs. Slow-draining sinks can indicate a blockage that needs to be addressed before you leave.
How to Turn Off Water to Your House for Vacation
Knowing how to turn off the water to your house for vacation can save you from potential plumbing disasters. Here’s a simple step-by-step process:
- Locate the Main Water Valve: This is usually found in the basement, garage, or near the water meter.
- Turn Off the Valve: Turn the valve clockwise to shut off the water supply.
- Drain the System: Open all faucets and flush all toilets to drain the remaining water from the pipes.
- Check for Leaks: Once the water is off, inspect your pipes and fixtures for any leaks.
Turning off the main water supply not only prevents potential leaks but also gives you peace of mind while you’re on vacation.
Common Plumbing Issues to Look Out for Upon Return
While it's essential to have a plumbing checklist before leaving for vacation, knowing what to do when you get back home is just as critical. Upon your return, it’s important to do a quick check to confirm everything is in order. Here are some common plumbing issues to look out for:
- Low Water Pressure: This could indicate a problem in your pipes or an issue with the main water supply.
- Unpleasant Odors: Foul smells from drains or toilets might suggest a buildup of bacteria or a blockage.
- Leaks or Damp Spots: Check under sinks, around appliances, near plumbing fixtures, and in the basement for any signs of water leaks or dampness. The presence of damp spots could signify a plumbing emergency, so don't hesitate to call a professional plumber.
Addressing these issues promptly can prevent further damage and help you get back to your routine without any unnecessary stress.
Schedule Plumbing Services With S and J Plumbing!
In conclusion, a well-maintained home is always important but especially when there is no one home to catch a plumbing mishap. Give yourself at least a couple weeks to address any issues before you leave. While spending money before a vacation is not ideal, it may be a benefit in the long run. Enjoy those summer vacations and memories, you deserve it!
Preparing your home for vacation can be overwhelming, but you don’t have to do it all alone. The professional plumbers at S and J Plumbing are here to help. We can assist with inspecting and maintaining your plumbing system, making sure everything is in top shape before you leave.From checking water heaters and sump pumps to performing drain maintenance services, S and
Plumbing covers all aspects of your plumbing checklist before leaving for vacation. Don’t let plumbing issues ruin your vacation. Schedule a service with our plumbers in Arlington Heights, IL, today, and enjoy peace of mind while you’re away!
