Obligatory 5 Plumbing Checks before Leaving for Vacation

Plumbing Checks before Leaving for VacationThe schools are shutting, and the weather is harmonizing, so the vacation time is within reach.

So, everyone is ready with their packed bags, and in the excitement, it is natural to forget to check on the compulsory home maintenance system such as plumbing. Also, who wants to come home to the flooding house after a relaxing vacation?

Thus, below are the compulsory five plumbing checks that one must consider before leaving the house for an extended vacation.

  1. Turn off the Water Supply 

Should I turn off the main water supply every time I leave the house?

No, in conclusion, if you’re gone for more than 24 hours, then you must turn off the water supply because of the following reasons:

  • Residential plumbing failures can arise, and in extreme cases, floods also arise.
  • Leaky taps can destroy the surroundings.
  • Lesser chances of water theft
  • Saving money on water bills
  • Water conservation

Switching off the main water supply valve in residential is a great way to avoid an emergency plumbing mess when you’re not home.

  1. Look over Leaks to Save Water 

Leakages are one of the expected outcomes of plumbing failures and worsen with time if left untreated. Also, not all leaks need to be visible; sometimes, the internal pipes can also leak. So, consider the below practices:

  • Tightly closing taps and faucets
  • Feel the bottoms of taps, pipes and faucets to check for leaks.
  • Examine the pipe joints so that the water isn’t oozing.

If you feel minor leaks or water oozing, repair them before leaving the house, as the problem gets more significant with time. Also, leak-proof homes conserve 50% more water than usual.

  1. Check for the Water Heaters 

It is not advisable to turn off the water geyser after every use because it is appropriate and will be mostly doused with occasionally working when not in use, say for three days. Also, you won’t see significant changes in the water bill.

However, if you’re going for an extended break, i.e., more than three days, then you must switch off the water heaters, and you can take care of the water heaters in the following ways:

  • Check for rust buildup on the pipes.
  • Either switch off or change the temperature settings to the vacation mode.
  • It’s better to turn it off because overheating can lead to a burst.
  • Avoid keeping fire-prone substances near the water heaters.

If your water heater is more than ten years old and even after you have ensured all the safety measures, it is wiser to replace the water heater before leaving the house.

  1. Empty Your Toilets and Drains 

Leaving a fresh home and returning to a smelly place is the worst nightmare because home is where you can unwind after all your adventures. Thus, empty the drains and toilets before leaving for a vacation. So, consider the following:

  • Don’t leave the clogged toilet thinking that it will unclog automatically. Instead, unclog the toilet with a plunger and later wash it with soap and water.
  • Clear the drain pipe by pouring hot water. Or add a mixture of vinegar and baking soda into the drain and let it sit for 15 minutes. Later, clean the drain with hot water.

Clearing the drains and toilets with Hydrochloric acid is also practised frequently in homes.

  1. Schedule a Call With Plumber 

The plumber in Brisbane believes that once every two years home’s plumbing must be inspected by a professional because even minor leaks in the plumbing system can lead to a mass disaster, plus the cost of repairing will also be higher. Thus, a plumber looks for the following:

  • Minor and precise leaks are detected with a camera.
  • Equipment fittings.
  • Inspection of the storage tank, valves, water pressure, toilets etc
  • Ensure efficient working of the water heating system and sanitary systems.

The right time to schedule a call with the plumber is a few days ahead of the vacation time, as in case the maintenance is vast, you have adequate time to repair it, and the fun time is not sacrificed.