If you’re planning a vacation, it’s essential to keep the house is safe and secure when you’re gone. Water damage is a serious concern for homeowners, especially those who are out of town and unable to look out for early signs of leaks. If you want to enjoy peace of mind while traveling, here are some easy steps to take to avoid that frantic call to the plumber upon your return.

How to Prevent Water Damage While on Vacation

1. Shut Off the Main Valve

To avoid plumbing leaks, shut off the main water valve. Doing so stops the water from running through the pipes while you’re gone since you won’t need it during that time anyway. Once you turn it off, turn on the faucets to make sure all the water is out.

2. Cut Off Appliances

Some homeowners need to keep the main water line on for their outdoor sprinkler system. If this is the case, shut down the lines to your main appliances. Washers, refrigerators with ice makers, and dishwashers should all have a dedicated valve. Also, turn off those that lead to sinks or toilets that won’t be in use.

3. Keep Temperatures Up

Frozen pipes are also a major concern if you’re away during winter. Prevent ice buildup from damaging the plumbing by keeping the heat running while you’re gone. It doesn’t need to be up as high as it would if you were home but set it at least around 60.

4. Check Your Gutters

You need functioning gutters to prevent rainfall from causing water damage. Before leaving, clean leaves or debris from the structure, so they easily drain. Make sure the downspouts are positioned such that any water will run at least ten feet away from the house.

5. Invest in a Failsafe

Even with precautions, water sometimes finds its way into homes. However, certain devices sense leaks or signs of damage. Ask a plumber these, as well as sump pump backups that work even if the house loses power.

 

If you need a plumber to fix leaks or shore up your system, call the team at Steve’s Plumbing & Heating. Serving Wisconsin Rapids, Stevens Point, Marshfield, and Wausau, the company offers a range of services, from emergency plumbing repairs to heating maintenance. Their technicians are friendly, knowledgeable, and guarantee customer satisfaction—or they’ll fix the issue free of charge. Call (715) 421-1800 or contact the plumbers online to request service.