How to Prepare Your Plumbing for Summer Vacation

As summer approaches and you plan your vacation, it’s crucial to ensure your home’s plumbing is in top shape before you leave. Proper preparation can help prevent unexpected issues and give you peace of mind while you’re away. Skelton’s Heating, Cooling, and Plumbing, serving Hoover, Leeds, Sylacauga, Chelsea, Vestavia Hills, and the surrounding areas, offers essential tips to prepare your plumbing for summer vacation.

1. Check for Leaks

Before leaving, inspect your home for any visible leaks, including faucets, under sinks, and around toilets. Even small leaks can cause significant damage if left unattended.

Expert Tip: Fix any leaks you find immediately or schedule a repair with Skelton’s Heating, Cooling, and Plumbing to address them professionally.

2. Turn Off the Water Supply

One of the best ways to prevent water damage while you’re away is to turn off the main water supply. This step ensures that no water flows through your pipes, eliminating the risk of leaks or bursts.

Expert Tip: If you can’t turn off the main water supply, consider shutting off water to individual fixtures like sinks, toilets, and washing machines.

3. Drain Your Pipes

After turning off the water supply, drain your pipes to remove any remaining water. This step helps reduce the risk of pipes freezing and bursting, especially if the weather unexpectedly cools down.

Expert Tip: Open all faucets and flush toilets after shutting off the water to drain any remaining water from the system.

4. Set Your Water Heater to Vacation Mode

Many modern water heaters have a vacation mode setting that lowers the temperature and conserves energy while you’re away. If your water heater doesn’t have this feature, manually adjust the thermostat to a lower setting.

Expert Tip: If you’re leaving for an extended period, consider turning off the water heater entirely.

5. Clean and Inspect Drains

Ensure all your drains are clear of debris to prevent clogs and unpleasant odors. Clean out any hair, soap scum, or other blockages in sinks, showers, and tubs.

Expert Tip: Pour a mixture of baking soda and vinegar down the drains, followed by hot water, to help clear any minor clogs and keep drains fresh.

6. Secure Outdoor Faucets and Hoses

Disconnect and store any garden hoses, and check outdoor faucets for leaks or drips. Make sure they’re securely turned off to avoid water waste and potential damage.

Expert Tip: Install covers on outdoor faucets to protect them from the elements and prevent accidental leaks.

7. Test Your Sump Pump

If you have a sump pump, test it to ensure it’s working correctly. A functioning sump pump can prevent basement flooding during heavy summer rains.

Expert Tip: Pour a bucket of water into the sump pit to see if the pump activates and drains the water effectively.

8. Inform a Neighbor or Friend

Let a trusted neighbor or friend know you’ll be away and ask them to check on your home periodically. Provide them with your contact information and instructions on how to handle any emergencies.

Expert Tip: Leave your plumber’s contact information with them so they can quickly reach out if any issues arise.

9. Securely Close All Windows and Doors

Ensure all windows and doors are securely closed and locked to prevent water intrusion during summer storms. Check for any gaps or cracks that could allow water to seep in.

Expert Tip: Use weatherstripping or caulk to seal any gaps around windows and doors for added protection.

10. Schedule a Professional Inspection

For added peace of mind, schedule a professional plumbing inspection with Skelton’s Heating, Cooling, and Plumbing before you leave. Our experienced technicians can identify and fix any potential issues, ensuring your home’s plumbing is in excellent condition.

Expert Tip: Regular maintenance and inspections can help prevent unexpected plumbing problems and extend the life of your system.

By following these tips, you can ensure your home’s plumbing is well-prepared for your summer vacation, allowing you to relax and enjoy your time away. For professional plumbing services and advice, contact Skelton’s Heating, Cooling, and Plumbing at (205) 289-3413 or click here to schedule an appointment with us!