Not everyone can get a vacation anytime they want. But if you are one of the fortunate ones, congratulations! Enjoy your break, breathe some fresh air, and spend quality time with yourself or your loved ones. But before leaving the house, make sure to keep it safe from intruders and make it “vacation-ready,” too.
Before leaving your home for a holiday trip, make sure that your locks work and your plumbing system is in good shape. Better yet, you can hire a professional plumber to help in your plumbing repairs if there’s any needed. Things may not be 100% normal yet, but make sure to have this plumbing checklist in case you are planning for an out-of-town trip soon.
Plumbing priorities before you leave for vacation
Check the following before you head out for a week-long vacation trip. That way, you won’t worry about water overflowing, or your home getting intruded on by a burglar.
Turn off the water supply.
It should be a no-brainer, especially if you won’t be going home for several days or weeks. Make sure to turn off the main water supply to prevent pipe bursts or leaks that could cause extensive damage to your home. Also, it is better to disconnect your hoses, turn off your sprinkler in the lawn, and water valves in your appliances.
Check your appliances.
As mentioned, you should also turn off the valves to your appliances, including the washing machine and toilets. A washing machine hose lasts around 3 years, depending on how often you use it and the level of care you do for it. Check for calcium deposits or cracks and replace the hose as needed. Run water through the garbage disposal so that food particles won’t get stuck there and rot.
Clean drains and gutters.
Check for any clogs in drains that could cause unpleasant smells in your home. If your drains haven’t had a good cleaning for some time, you should call a plumber so you won’t be coming home to an unwelcoming smell. As for gutters, make sure to clear them of rainwater, leaves, dirt, and debris. It will prevent rainwater from seeping into your home while you are away.
Turn on the pool pump.
If you have a swimming pool at home and leave the house for days, make sure to turn on the pool pump. Otherwise, it can cause algae build-up. Keep the pump on and ensure it works properly while you’re enjoying your holiday elsewhere.
Check your sump pump.
It is important to test your sump pump, especially if your location is flood-prone. No one wants to walk into a huge wet mess after a supposedly relaxing vacation. You can test it by pouring a bucket of water into the sump pit. If it pumps the water away without hassle, then you are good to go.
Vacations are supposed to be fun and stress-free, but you need to prepare your home too before you go. These tips are also for your good, so you can enjoy your holiday without worrying about your home’s safety. Contact a professional plumber in Franklin, TN, for your drain and pipe repair needs.
