Plumbing Priorities Before You Leave for Vacation

Plumbing Priorities Before You Leave for Vacation

31/01/2025

There’s nothing worse than coming home from a relaxing vacation, ready to settle back into your routine, only to discover a plumbing disaster waiting for you. Water-damaged floors, burst pipes, or even a flooded basement can quickly sour those post-vacation vibes. Luckily, with the right vacation plumbing tips and preparation, you can safeguard your home and enjoy your time away worry-free.

This guide will walk you through essential plumbing priorities before you leave, including a pre-vacation checklist, water conservation tips, smart home monitoring, and how to handle emergencies. Keep reading to ensure you come home to a safe and dry house!

Plumbing Areas to Cover Before Leaving on Vacation | My Buddy the Plumber,  Electric, Heating & Air

The Essential Pre-Vacation Plumbing Checklist

Ensuring your plumbing is ready for your absence starts with a thorough checklist. Here are the key steps homeowners should take before heading out the door.

1. Turn Off Your Main Water Supply

This simple step can prevent catastrophic water damage while you’re away. By shutting off the main water supply, you eliminate the risk of leaks or bursts that could lead to flooding. If you’re unsure where your main water valve is located, contact a professional plumbing service like Extreme Plumbing and Rooter in Van Nuys, CA for guidance.

2. Check for Leaks

Inspect your faucets, toilets, and visible pipes for any leaks before you leave. Even a small drip can add up to a significant problem during an extended absence. Don’t have time to fix it yourself? Schedule a professional plumbing service call to ensure everything is in working order.

3. Drain and Clean Your Drains

Clear your drains of any clogs or debris to prevent backups in your sinks, toilets, or showers. Backups can release unpleasant odors and create a mess while you’re away. Extreme Plumbing and Rooter offers expert drain cleaning services to handle even the toughest clogs.

4. Adjust Your Water Heater Settings

If you’re going away for more than a few days, turn your water heater to “vacation mode” or lower the temperature to save energy. This step prevents the heating element from working unnecessarily while you’re away, reducing both wear and energy use.

5. Inspect Your Outdoor Plumbing

Outdoor faucets, hoses, and sprinkler systems can sometimes be overlooked but are just as important to check. Shut off outdoor water sources and ensure sprinkler systems are functioning correctly to prevent leaks or over-watering.

6. Secure Your Sewer Line

Ensure your sewer cleanout is clear and functioning correctly so that there’s no risk of a nasty sewer backup happening during your vacation.

Water Conservation Tips When You’re Away

Taking steps to conserve water while you’re gone is good for the planet and your monthly bills. Here’s how to do it easily.

  • Turn Off Automatic Appliances – Ensure appliances like dishwashers and washing machines are turned off entirely.
  • Inspect Your Irrigation Systems – Set timers for sprinklers or drip irrigation systems to water sparingly or skip watering completely if the weather allows.
  • Close All Faucets and Valves – Double-check that no faucets are trickling and that the shut-off valves on appliances like refrigerators are closed.

Smart Tech to Keep Your Plumbing in Check

Modern technology can take the stress out of plumbing worries during vacation. Smart home devices are now playing a big role in preventing plumbing issues.

1. Smart Water Leak Detectors

Devices like the Flo by Moen Water Detector or the Honeywell Lyric W1 can alert you to leaks in real-time. Place them under sinks or near appliances like your washing machine to monitor high-risk areas.

2. Automatic Water Shut-Off Valves

Take leak prevention to the next level by installing an automatic water shut-off system. This device detects leaks and shuts off the water supply automatically, keeping water damage to a minimum.

3. Pipe Monitoring Sensors

Some systems can analyze pipe pressure and detect anomalies before they turn into major problems. Devices like the Phyn Plus can provide data and help you prevent potential leaks from forming.

If you want help choosing or install a smart plumbing solution, Extreme Plumbing and Rooter’s residential plumbing experts in Van Nuys, CA are your go-to resource!

Always Be Prepared with Emergency Contacts

Preparation isn’t just about prevention—it’s also about having a plan if things go wrong. Create a list of emergency contacts before you leave, including a trusted plumbing service near you.

If you’re in the Greater Los Angeles area, Extreme Plumbing and Rooter offers 24-hour emergency plumbing services to handle pipe bursts, leaks, drain blockages, and more. Save our number so you’re ready for anything!

Emergency Contact Details:

Keep Peace of Mind While You Vacation

Vacations are meant for relaxation, not plumbing headaches. By taking proactive measures, you can protect your home from potential disasters and conserve water while you’re away. Technology, like smart leak detectors and auto-shutoff valves, can further enhance your peace of mind.

Extreme Plumbing and Rooter has been serving Los Angeles homeowners for over 25 years. From emergency plumbing services to routine maintenance, our team of skilled plumbers is here to make sure your plumbing is worry-free—whether you’re home or away.

Share Your Tips!

Got your own vacation plumbing tips to add? Share them in the comments or reach out to our team with your questions—because preventative care benefits everyone.