Heading out on a vacation should be a time of relaxation, not a time to worry about what might be happening to your plumbing while you’re away. Unfortunately, plumbing disasters don’t take holidays. A small leak or unnoticed issue can escalate quickly, turning your peaceful getaway into a costly nightmare. The good news? With the right preparation, you can drastically reduce the risk of returning home to a plumbing emergency.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through smart, proactive steps you can take before leaving town to ensure your home’s plumbing remains safe and sound.
Why Plumbing Disasters Happen When You’re Away
When no one is home, plumbing issues can go unnoticed for days or even weeks. A slow leak might seem harmless at first, but over time it can lead to mold, structural damage, or even foundation problems. Clogged drains, faulty water heaters, and compromised pipes can all trigger emergencies that are much harder to contain without immediate action.
Understanding these risks is key to preventing them.
Step 1: Inspect Your Home for Hidden Leaks
Before locking up and heading out, give your home a thorough inspection. Check under sinks, behind toilets, around water heaters, and near washing machines for any signs of moisture or corrosion. These spots are notorious for harboring small leaks that can grow into larger problems.
Also, listen for unusual sounds like dripping or hissing, which may indicate a slow leak in a pipe or valve.
Step 2: Turn Off the Main Water Supply
One of the most effective ways to avoid a plumbing disaster is to shut off the main water valve before leaving. Doing so cuts off the water supply to the entire house, preventing any leaks or bursts from causing extensive damage.
If you’re expecting someone to house-sit or water your plants, consider turning off individual valves under sinks, toilets, and appliances instead. That way, you minimize risk while still allowing limited water use.
Step 3: Drain and Disconnect Appliances
Appliances like washing machines, dishwashers, and water heaters are common culprits of leaks and floods. Before vacation:
- Turn off the water supply to these appliances.
- Unplug them for extra safety.
- For extended trips, consider draining the water heater or setting it to “vacation mode.”
A little effort here can prevent thousands of dollars in damage.
Step 4: Test Your Sump Pump (If You Have One)
If your home has a basement or crawl space, you may rely on a sump pump to prevent flooding. Test it before you go by pouring a bucket of water into the sump pit. The pump should activate automatically and begin removing the water.
If it doesn’t, you may need professional assistance from one of the best plumbing companies in OKC to ensure it’s working correctly.
Step 5: Check for Clogged Drains
Clogged or slow-moving drains can back up while you’re away, especially if there’s a storm or heavy rain. Clean your drains and flush them with hot water or a safe drain cleaner to remove buildup. Pay extra attention to kitchen sinks, bathtubs, and laundry areas.
If your drains are consistently slow or giving off unpleasant odors, it’s best to call a plumber OKC for a thorough inspection before you leave.
Step 6: Secure Outdoor Plumbing Fixtures
Don’t forget about outdoor faucets, irrigation systems, and hoses. Disconnect garden hoses and shut off water valves leading to outdoor fixtures. This is especially important in cooler months when uninsulated pipes can freeze and burst.
If you have an automated sprinkler system, check it for any leaks or scheduling errors, and consider shutting it down completely while you’re away.
Step 7: Ask a Trusted Friend or Neighbor to Check In
Even after taking every precaution, having someone check on your home while you’re gone adds a layer of security. They can look for signs of leaks, water damage, or unusual smells.
Leave them a contact number for a trusted emergency plumber Oklahoma City in case anything goes wrong. It’s better to catch a minor issue early than let it escalate.
Step 8: Install Smart Water Monitoring Systems
Smart home technology has come a long way, and water monitoring devices are worth considering. These systems detect unusual water usage patterns, send alerts to your phone, and can even shut off your water supply automatically if a major leak is detected.
While this is a more advanced option, it provides peace of mind, especially for frequent travelers.
Step 9: Clean Your Gutters and Downspouts
Water damage doesn’t always start inside the home. Clogged gutters and downspouts can overflow, allowing water to pool around your foundation or seep into the basement. Before your trip, clean out leaves and debris, and make sure water is draining away from your home properly.
Step 10: Keep an Emergency Plumbing Contact Handy
Even with all precautions in place, plumbing issues can still arise. Having a reliable professional on call is crucial. When searching for plumbers near me, be sure to choose one with experience in emergency repairs and a strong local reputation.
About A+ Plumbing & Gas
A+ Plumbing & Gas proudly serves homeowners and businesses across Oklahoma City, Yukon, Edmond, Bethany, Moore, Norman, and surrounding areas. Known for professional service and fast response times, our team specializes in a wide range of plumbing and gas line services, including emergency plumbing, water heater repair, slab leak detection, gas line installation, and more.
Whether you’re dealing with clogged drains, water leaks, or sewer line issues, our highly skilled technicians are here to help. We also offer advanced water slab leak detection and water line reroutes that protect your home from costly damage. Our team works with both residential and commercial customers and is fully equipped to handle every plumbing challenge quickly and efficiently.
