Before heading off for a vacation, there are many things you need to do to ensure that your home stays safe and secure while you're away. One important task that is often overlooked is preparing your plumbing system. Plumbing problems can be costly and damaging, especially if they occur while you’re not around to address them. Whether you're leaving for a week or a month, taking a few preventative steps can save you from returning to unpleasant surprises. At Plombier Pointe-aux-Trembles, we recommend taking the following steps to prepare your plumbing before you go on vacation.
1. Turn Off the Main Water Supply
One of the easiest and most effective ways to prevent water-related issues while you're away is to turn off the main water supply. This will prevent water from running through your pipes and potentially causing leaks or flooding in your home. It’s a precautionary step that can help you avoid the mess and costly repairs that come with burst pipes or other plumbing emergencies.
What to Do:
- Locate your home’s main water shutoff valve, which is typically found in the basement, crawl space, or near the water meter. Turn the valve clockwise until it is completely closed.
2. Check for Leaks and Repair Them Before You Leave
Before you leave, take the time to inspect your plumbing for any visible leaks. Small leaks that go unnoticed can cause significant damage if left unchecked for an extended period. You don’t want to return to a flooded home or a costly water bill.
What to Do:
- Check under sinks, around toilets, and near appliances like the dishwasher or washing machine for signs of leaks.
- If you find any issues, call a professional plumber from Plombier Pointe-aux-Trembles to repair the leak before you leave.
3. Empty the Water Heater
Water heaters are essential for daily comfort, but if you plan to be away for an extended period, it’s a good idea to turn them off or lower the temperature. This not only conserves energy but also helps prevent any potential issues that could arise while you’re gone.
What to Do:
- If your water heater has a vacation mode, activate it. If not, lower the temperature to a setting that doesn’t use as much energy.
- If you’re going away for a longer period, consider turning the water heater off completely.
4. Turn Off All Water-Using Appliances
If you have appliances that use water, such as a dishwasher, washing machine, or refrigerator with an ice maker, make sure they are turned off before leaving. This can prevent any accidental flooding or leaks from happening while you’re away.
What to Do:
- Ensure all water-using appliances are powered down, and disconnect the hoses from the washing machine and dishwasher, if possible.
- This is especially important if you’re leaving for an extended period, as even small issues can escalate while you're gone.
5. Clean Your Drains
Clogged drains are a common plumbing issue that can be avoided with a little extra care before you leave for vacation. If you have any slow drains or blocked pipes, they could turn into a bigger problem while you’re away, especially if water begins to accumulate.
What to Do:
- Clean your kitchen sink, bathroom sink, and shower drains to ensure they are free of debris and buildup.
- You can use a mixture of baking soda and vinegar to clean your drains naturally, or a drain cleaner if needed.
6. Insulate Pipes for Protection (Especially in Cold Weather)
If you're leaving during colder months, make sure that your pipes are properly insulated. Frozen pipes can burst, causing significant damage to your home’s plumbing system and leading to costly repairs. Insulating your pipes before you leave is a great preventative measure.
What to Do:
- Use pipe insulation sleeves or wrap exposed pipes with insulating tape, especially in unheated areas like basements, attics, and crawl spaces.
- Keep your thermostat set to a consistent temperature, even when you’re away, to avoid freezing.
7. Drain the Toilet Tank and Bowl (Optional)
If you're going to be away for an extended period, draining your toilet tank and bowl is an extra precaution to prevent any potential water damage from a malfunctioning toilet.
What to Do:
- Turn off the water supply to the toilet and flush it to empty the tank and bowl.
- If you're leaving for several weeks, you may want to add a small amount of antifreeze to the bowl to prevent any leftover water from freezing.
8. Set Up a Plumbing Emergency Contact
Even though you've taken all the necessary precautions, plumbing emergencies can still occur. It's always a good idea to have a reliable plumber on call in case something unexpected arises.
What to Do:
- Before leaving, save the contact information of a local plumber, like Plombier Pointe-aux-Trembles, who can help if an issue arises while you're away.
Conclusion
Preparing your plumbing before going on vacation is a simple but effective way to protect your home from plumbing disasters. By following these steps, you can ensure your plumbing system remains in top condition and prevent costly repairs. If you're unsure about how to prepare your plumbing or have concerns about your system, don't hesitate to contact the experts at Plomberie Westmount. We’re here to help you keep your plumbing running smoothly while you're away.
