How to Prepare Your Plumbing for Summer Vacation

Going on a summer vacation can be a wonderful experience, but it’s important to ensure that your home’s plumbing is properly prepared before you leave. Failing to take precautions can lead to plumbing issues such as leaks, flooding, and water damage, which can be expensive and time-consuming to repair. Here are some tips to help homeowners prepare their plumbing for summer vacation:

1. Turn off the main water supply
   One of the most important steps in preparing your plumbing for a summer vacation is to turn off the main water supply to your home. This will prevent any water from entering your pipes while you’re away, reducing the risk of leaks and water damage. Be sure to locate the main shut-off valve in your home and turn it off before you leave.
2. Drain your pipes
   After turning off the main water supply, it’s a good idea to drain your pipes to remove any remaining water. This will help prevent any residual water from freezing and expanding in your pipes, which can cause them to burst. To drain your pipes, turn on all of the faucets in your home, including outdoor faucets, and let the water run until it stops. You should also flush all of the toilets in your home to remove any water from the tanks and bowls.
3. Insulate your pipes
   If you live in an area where temperatures can drop below freezing during the summer, it’s a good idea to insulate your pipes before you leave. This will help prevent them from freezing and bursting in your absence. You can purchase pipe insulation at most hardware stores and wrap it around your pipes to keep them warm.
4. Check for leaks
   Before you leave for your summer vacation, be sure to check your plumbing for any leaks. This includes checking faucets, toilets, and pipes for any signs of dripping or pooling water. If you notice any leaks, be sure to have them repaired before you leave.
5. Set your thermostat
   While you’re away on vacation, you can save money on your energy bills by setting your thermostat to a higher temperature than usual. However, it’s important to ensure that your home remains at a safe temperature to prevent any damage to your plumbing or other systems. A good rule of thumb is to set your thermostat to around 85 degrees Fahrenheit during the summer months.
6. Shut off your hot water heater
   If you’re going to be away from your home for an extended period of time, it’s a good idea to shut off your hot water heater to save energy. Most hot water heaters have a vacation mode or a temperature setting that can be lowered to conserve energy while you’re away.
7. Consider hiring a plumber
   If you’re unsure about how to properly prepare your plumbing for a summer vacation, consider hiring a professional plumber to help. They can inspect your plumbing, make any necessary repairs, and provide additional tips to help protect your plumbing while you’re enjoying your vacation.

In conclusion, preparing your plumbing for a summer vacation is an important step to prevent costly plumbing issues while you’re away. Turning off the main water supply, draining your pipes, insulating your pipes, checking for leaks, setting your thermostat, and shutting off your hot water heater are all important steps to take. If you’re unsure about how to prepare your plumbing, consider hiring a professional plumber to help. By taking these steps, you can enjoy your summer vacation with peace of mind, knowing that your plumbing is properly protected.