Heading out of town for a summer getaway? Whether you’re gone for a weekend or a few weeks, taking the time to prep your plumbing before you leave can save you from coming home to a costly mess.
From leaking pipes to flooded basements, many plumbing emergencies happen while no one is home to catch them. Fortunately, a few simple steps can help you avoid damage and ensure peace of mind while you’re away.
Below, the pros at CW Cummings Plumbing share expert plumbing maintenance tips to prepare your home before vacation.
Shut Off the Main Water Supply
Why It Matters
If a pipe bursts or a fixture leaks while you’re away, water can flow continuously, causing extensive water damage. Shutting off the main water supply stops water from entering your home and helps prevent major disasters.
How to Do It
Locate your home’s main water shut-off valve—typically found in the basement, utility room, or near where the water line enters your home. Turn the valve clockwise until it stops. After shutting it off, run the faucets to drain any remaining water in the lines.
Inspect and Maintain Your Sump Pump
Protect Against Basement Flooding
If you have a basement, your sump pump is critical in preventing flooding during heavy summer storms—especially in Rhode Island. Before leaving town, pour a bucket of water into the sump pit to ensure the pump turns on and drains properly.
Consider a Battery Backup
If your area is prone to power outages, consider adding a battery backup system to keep your sump pump working even when the power goes out.
Learn more about sump pump maintenance and seasonal prep here.
Check for Leaks and Drips
Prevent Small Leaks from Becoming Big Problems
Even a slow drip from a faucet or under-sink pipe can cause mold, water damage, and high utility bills while you’re away. Walk through your home and check all fixtures, toilets, and appliances for any signs of active leaks.
If you spot anything suspicious, schedule a professional plumbing inspection before you leave to ensure everything is in top shape.
Turn Off Water-Using Appliances
Dishwasher, Washing Machine, Ice Maker
Before heading out, turn off and unplug appliances like your dishwasher and washing machine. These can develop leaks or faulty connections while not in use.
For added safety, shut off the individual water supply valves behind these appliances. This small step can prevent leaks that would otherwise go unnoticed.
Set Your Water Heater to Vacation Mode
Save Energy While You’re Away
Most modern water heaters have a “vacation” or “low” setting that reduces the unit’s energy usage without shutting it off completely. This setting keeps the pilot light on but prevents the heater from maintaining a full tank of hot water unnecessarily.
If your water heater doesn’t have this mode and you’ve shut off the main water supply, consider turning it off entirely.
For more information on water heaters and replacement signs, read this guide from CW Cummings Plumbing.
Get Vacation-Ready Plumbing Help from CW Cummings
Before heading out for a well-deserved break, take a few minutes to safeguard your home’s plumbing. These simple steps can prevent major water damage and give you peace of mind while you’re away.
If you need a plumbing inspection, leak repair, or sump pump check before your trip, CW Cummings Plumbing is here to help. Our certified master plumbers offer reliable, local service to keep your home safe year-round.
Call (401) 828-7730 or contact us here today to schedule your vacation plumbing prep with confidence.
