5 Plumbing Tips When Heading Out on Vacation

We’d all like our house to behave when we’re away, but often it doesn’t. If something goes wrong and there is no one around to deal with it, you could return from your vacation to a nasty surprise.

One aspect of your home that’s always worth a check before you head out on vacation is your plumbing. If your plumbing has problems while you are away, hundreds, if not thousands, of damage may be caused. Fortunately, following these five plumbing tips can lessen the chances of a hefty bill when you’re back from vacation.

Plumbing Tip 1: Shut Off Your Main Water Valve

The best way to prevent water from causing issues inside your home while you are away is to stop water from entering your home in the first place. You will be doing just that by shutting off your main water valve.

Plumbing Tip 2: Drain or Turn Off Your Sprinklers

Depending on how long you will be away, you should at least drain any water from drain hoses or sprinkler systems. If you are only going to be away for a short period, consider turning off your sprinkler system completely.

Plumbing Tip 3: Switch Your Water Heater to ‘Vacation Mode’

You don’t have to switch off your water heater or reprogram it while away. Most systems have a ‘vacation mode’ that tells the system to keep idle while it is not needed. Switch back from vacation mode when you arrive back home.

Plumbing Tip 4: Check for Leaks

Leaky faucets and showers will add to your water bills while you are away, and you are literally throwing money down the drain! Deal with all leaks before your vacation to avoid nasty surprises when you return.

Plumbing Tip 1: Ask a Friendly Neighbor

It only takes one person to notice something amiss in your home. Try and arrange for a neighbor to check in every three or four days while you’re (hopefully) having the time of your life. If there’s any problem, they should spot it, and it’s better than leaving your home vacant for a couple of weeks or more.

Ideal Conditions are the professionals you can trust for all your heating, ventilation, and air conditioning needs. Whether you need help with plumbing, electrical, or HVAC problems, we can help. We’ve been a fixture in the Jacksonville, FL community for years and we’re always here should need a plumbing ‘check-up’ before you head out on vacation. Contact us today at 904-379-8762 or reach out to us online here.