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The point of going on a vacation is to reduce stress and recharge both physically and mentally. A holiday offers a chance to step away from daily responsibilities and immerse oneself in new experiences. You don’t want to be on your well-planned gateway worrying about things in your home or tasks you didn’t complete before you left. This is why preparation is everything. Among the many things that require attention before you leave, your plumbing system should be a top priority. While working silently behind the scenes, a plumbing system can cause catastrophic damage if it experiences any issues.
1. Sump Pump Protection
Sump pumps play a crucial role in preventing flooding and water damage in the basement and foundation. Therefore, before you leave for vacation, ensure yours is in good working order.
There are two ways to confirm if your sump pump works well: manually testing the float and dumping water in the sump pit. The float (the buoyant object in the sump pit) is the unit’s ON switch. It rises with the water level, triggering the pump to activate and drain excess water. To test the float, manually lift it to verify that the pump starts working as expected. If it does, conduct the second test of pouring a few gallons of water into the pit. Observe how the float rises with water, and note the level at which the pump engages.
Also, check for visible signs of wear or damage. For instance, if the sump pump activates but drains slowly, there may be a clog or obstruction in the discharge pipe or the pump itself. Corrosion can weaken the sump pump over time, leading to reduced efficiency and potential failure. Additionally, listen for unusual noises such as grinding, rattling, or humming because these may indicate worn-out parts or debris interfering with the pump’s operation.
If your sump pump has any issues, call a qualified plumber for troubleshooting. They will not only fix or replace the unit but will also confirm that the electrical connections are secure and functioning properly.
2. Check for Leaks
The last thing you want to deal with after a relaxing vacation is returning home to water damage caused by hidden leaks. Leaks provide an excellent living condition for mold, mildew, fungi, and bacteria. You’ll return to find dark spots, musty smells, and peeling paint or wallpaper.
Leaks also cause permanent damage to the essential components of your home. The persistent moisture will corrode metals, destroy wood structure, and degrade dry wall materials. Electronics and appliances exposed to excess humidity may suffer internal damage, leading to malfunctions or complete damage.
Moreover, you’ll incur a significantly higher water bill. Your water meter registers every drop of water flowing through your home, including that which is lost through leaks.
Before leaving for vacation, conduct a thorough inspection of your home’s plumbing system. Check under sinks, around toilets, near appliances, and at exposed pipes for any signs of water leaks. If you notice damp spots, water stains, or visible leaks, address the issue immediately.
You can also do a water meter test. Turn off all water outlets in your home, including appliances like water heater, dishwasher, and refrigerator. Take note of your water meter reading, and then wait for two or more hours. Check the meter reading again. If you notice any changes, you have a hidden leak.
To determine whether the leak is indoors or outdoors, turn off the main water supply to your house. Wait for a few hours, and check the meter again. If the meter continues to register usage, the leak is likely outside, possibly in underground pipes or irrigation systems. If the meter stops moving, the leak is inside your home.
If you suspect a leak, call a plumber to find the source and determine the extent of the problem. They’ll recommend the best course of action, whether it’s a simple repair or a more extensive pipe replacement.
3. Turn Off the Water
Since you’ll be gone for a while, it is safer to turn off your water supply. Running water always carries the risk of an accident happening. You might return home to a burst pipe, floods, or a malfunctioning appliance. Leaking underground pipes may also attract tree roots, which naturally seek out moisture. Over time, these roots can infiltrate weakened pipes, causing further breakage and massive clogs. In severe cases, aggressive root growth can spread beneath your home’s foundation, leading to cracks and instability.
It is also advisable to drain water out of hoses, piping, and appliances. Water fixtures, particularly the ones located outdoors or in crawlspaces, attics, and basements, are prone to ruptures from freezing water.
Draining the pipes also reduces the risk of water hammers. A water hammer is a momentary pressure surge in a pipeline that occurs when there’s a sudden change in water flow or when a valve is suddenly closed. This sudden water stop can weaken joints and connections, potentially leading to leaks.
4. Inspect These Spaces Around the House
Clear Drains and Garbage Disposal
Make sure all drains are flowing freely and clear any blockages to prevent standing water. Run cold water through your garbage disposal for 30–60 seconds to eliminate any food particles that might cause odors or clogs in your absence.
Check Washing Machine and Dishwasher Hoses
Examine the rubber or braided hoses connected to these appliances. Cracks or bulges are signs that a hose could rupture. Turn off the valves leading to these machines, or unplug them completely, to prevent leaks while you’re away.
Inspect Outdoor Faucets and Irrigation Systems
Check garden hoses, outdoor spigots, and sprinkler systems for any drips or signs of wear. Aging materials can lead to leaks or pipe bursts. Shut off and drain these systems if they won’t be used while you’re gone.
5. Schedule Professional Plumbing Maintenance
For greater peace of mind, have a reputable plumber inspect your plumbing system before you leave for vacation. They’ll conduct a thorough assessment to identify any potential issues that could escalate while you’re away. They can also provide expert recommendations or preventative measures, like insulation of exposed pipes, upgrading outdated plumbing components, or installing leak detection systems.
Contact Pipe Works Services for More Information
Our highly skilled and experienced plumbers can help with your vacation plumbing preparation. Whether you need a thorough inspection, leak detection, drain cleaning, sump pump testing, or water heater adjustments, we provide expert services tailored to your needs. You can also contact us for sewer line maintenance and repairs to keep your home safe, healthy, and functional throughout the years.
Call Pipe Works Services for plumbing service in Chatham before you go on a vacation.
