The holidays are among the most traveled time for homeowners, but an essential part of the house often gets overlooked. Plumbing can become vulnerable during winter months, especially when no one is home to use it. Before you pack and leave for your Thanksgiving or Christmas vacation, make these preparations to avoid having to call a plumber as soon as you return.

How to Prepare Your Home’s Plumbing for Winter Vacation

1. Install Pipe Insulation

With freezing temperatures in November or December, your pipes are susceptible to freezing and bursting. A common solution is to let faucets drip to keep pipes from freezing, but if you’ll be away from home, apply foam insulation. Remember to open cabinets to allow your exposed pipes some warmth while you’re gone.

2. Check for Leaks

Before you leave, examine your exposed plumbing, checking for damp spots or apparent leaks. If you find any, call a plumber to have them fixed before you leave. Otherwise, you risk returning home to extensive water damage and costly plumbing repairs. For extra security, shut off the main water valve before you depart, too.

3. Adjust Your Water Heater

Modern water heaters feature vacation settings, allowing users to conserve energy and save money on utility costs while away. Set the thermostat to around 50 to 55 degrees Fahrenheit if your appliance lacks this feature. If you need help changing the settings on your water heater, consult a plumber.

The specialists at Empire Heating & Air Conditioning in Monroe County, NY, are more than HVAC contractors; they also specialize in plumbing services. Their plumbers are licensed and insured, and they can inspect your home for problems before or after your holiday travel. To take advantage of their 50 years of experience, call (585) 325-6768 to schedule an appointment. Visit them online to learn more about their services.