As the holiday season approaches, you may plan to visit loved ones or escape to a winter wonderland. While packing your bags and checking off your to-do list, pay attention to essential plumbing tasks that should be completed before your departure.
Failing to take these precautions could lead to unwelcome surprises upon your return home. Here’s a comprehensive checklist to safeguard your plumbing systems for worry-free travels.
1. Outdoor Spigot Shutdown
Before leaving, ensure that you have drained all your outside spigots. Cold temperatures can force water in the pipes to freeze, leading to potential cracks and leaks in your outdoor spigots.
2. Water Heater Maintenance
Before you set off, examine your water heater for any visible signs of problems. If everything appears in working order, consider dialing back the temperature. Many modern units feature a ‘Vacation Mode,’ specifically designed to conserve energy when the home is unoccupied. For local water heater repair or maintenance, consider scheduling an appointment with Drain Express.
3. Keep Your House Odor-Free
Many people clean their refrigerators before leaving for the holidays and toss perishable items down the garbage disposal. Take a moment to thoroughly clean your disposal unit to prevent unpleasant odors from filling your home while you’re away.
4. Main Water Valve Shutdown
Turning off the main water valve is one effective way to avert plumbing catastrophes when you are not home. This stops water from entering your home’s plumbing system. After shutting off the valve, open all faucets to drain water from the pipes.
5. Sprinkler System Check
If you’ve opted not to shut off the main water valve, deactivate your sprinkler system. Small, unnoticed leaks can lead to significant problems when you return home.
6. Prevent Wasted Water Expenses
Before leaving, inspect your faucets for any leaks. A soaking faucet can waste incredible water and cost you more than expected. Use a drip calculator to assess how much a leaky faucet could cost you and take steps to address the issue before your departure.
Call Drain Express for Same-Day Service
If you’re leaving town for the holidays, a little precaution can go a long way in preventing a plumbing mishap upon your return. For comprehensive plumbing services, including local water heater repair, trust Drain Express for same-day, reliable service.
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Don’t hesitate to contact us today, either online or via a call, to learn more about how we can help you maintain a robust and efficient plumbing system.