While traveling is fun, worrying about your home while you’re gone can make it stressful. Plumbing issues that might arise in an unattended home are one of the significant worries for homeowners.
But with some planning, you can avoid plumbing issues and guarantee that your house is secure while you’re away. In this article, we’ll go over some tips for avoiding plumbing issues while you’re away. Let’s dive in!
6 Tips for Preventing Plumbing Problems in an Unattended Home
Shut Off the Main Water Supply
Cut off your home’s main water supply to avoid plumbing issues while you’re away. This is the simplest and most efficient solution. Doing this will stop any water damage due to leakage or bursts and stop any running water that can raise your water bill.
Find your main water shut-off valve, often placed close to the water meter, and turn it off before you depart for vacation. Turn the valve back on when you get back and look for leaks.
Check Your Plumbing System
Checking your plumbing system for leaks or other problems arising while you’re absent is a good practice before you depart for vacation.
Look for leaks in the cellar or attic, around toilets, and under sinks. Inspect the area for any indications of water damage, like damaged flooring or discoloration on the walls or ceilings. Before you leave, get any problems that you find fixed.
Check Your Water Heater
Another place that may experience issues while you’re away is your water heater. There is a possibility that an older device will malfunction and result in water damage.
Check the age of your water heater before you go, and if it’s older than ten years, think about replacing it. To save energy and reduce the risk of scalding, you should also decrease the temperature to the lowest setting.
Insulate Your Pipes
It’s crucial to insulate your pipes if you’re going during the winter to stop them from freezing and bursting. Pipes in unheated spaces, like the basement or crawlspace, are particularly vulnerable.
You can buy foam pipe insulation at your nearest hardware shop and do the installation yourself. This will shield your pipes from freezing and stop any water damage.
Have Someone Check on Your Home
It’s smart for someone to check on your home while you’re away if you’re planning on being away for a long time. You may ask a friend, family member, or a reputable home sitter to help.
Please make sure they are familiar with how to turn off the main water supply in an emergency and have them inspect the plumbing system for any leaks or other problems.
Consider Installing a Water Alarm
Consider installing a water alarm if you’re extremely worried about potential plumbing issues while away. This gadget will sound an alarm if it discovers leaks or water damage, alerting you or your home sitter. Certain types may even automatically turn off the main water supply.
We understand that even while you’re away on vacation, you want to ensure that your property is in good shape and free of any plumbing issues.
You can safeguard your residence from potential water damage and spare yourself the trouble and expense of dealing with plumbing crises by following these few easy tips before leaving.
Remember, prevention is key. Call a professional plumber for help if you have any questions about these measures!
