3 Ways to Prepare Your Home’s Plumbing Before a Vacation
Let’s face it: there’s nothing more exciting than heading out on vacation — especially after the year we all endured. However, just because you’ll be on your way to paradise in a matter of hours doesn’t mean your home’s plumbing system received the memo.
Unfortunately, many incidents have occurred where the most horrific plumbing disasters had happened when homeowners were on vacation. To lessen the chance of this from happening in your humble abode, here are some quick tips to take into consideration:
1. Check for Leaks
This “activity” should be completed regularly, but make sure to examine your home’s plumbing system for leaks. According to the Environmental Protection Agency, ten percent of homes have leaks that waste 90 gallons (or more) of water per day.
Now, if you happen to spot a leak while playing “detective” around your home, regardless if the leak is big or small, it has the potential to wreak havoc when you least expect it. That said, the minute you spot something out of the ordinary (or sense that something is “off”), contact your trusted plumber right away before you set sail.
2. Inspect all Appliances and Fixtures
Once you’ve inspected the pipes in your home for leaks, complete the same action with all the appliances and fixtures in your home. Whether it’s a brand new faucet in the bathroom or the toilet that’s in the guest bathroom that’s been there since you bought the house, nothing should be off-limits when making your rounds.
3. Turn the Water Off
Before stepping out the front door, consider turning the water off in your home. Especially if no one will be in your house, carrying out this simple task can help put your mind at ease!
To do this, locate your home’s main shutoff valve and turn it off. Voilà — you’ll be able to put all of your attention on your vacation, rather than worry about a plumbing catastrophe from striking in your home.