A Spring Break & Summer Guide
Nothing ruins a relaxing vacation faster than coming home to a plumbing disaster. Whether you’re heading out for Spring Break or planning an extended summer getaway, taking a few precautionary steps before you leave can prevent costly repairs and give you peace of mind while you’re away.
At DRC Plumbing and Sewer, we specialize in emergency plumbing, drains, fixtures, sewer work, sump pumps, laundry hoses, water heaters, and outdoor plumbing—all of which can be impacted by plumbing issues when your home is left unattended. To help you avoid unpleasant surprises, we’ve compiled a comprehensive checklist to protect your plumbing while you’re away.
1. Shut Off Your Main Water Supply
One of the easiest ways to prevent major water damage is to turn off the main water valve before leaving. This simple step stops water from flowing into your home, significantly reducing the risk of burst pipes, leaks, or appliance failures while you’re gone.
How to do it: Locate your main water shut-off valve, typically found in the basement, garage, or near the water meter. Turn the valve clockwise to shut off the water supply.
Exception: If you have an automatic sprinkler system or someone staying at your house, shutting off the water may not be practical. In that case, proceed with the other protective measures below.
2. Check for Leaks & Drips
Even small leaks can waste gallons of water and cause damage over time. Before you leave, inspect your home for any dripping faucets, running toilets, or leaky pipes under sinks.
Pro tip: Turn off water to appliances like washing machines and dishwashers individually if you don’t want to shut off the entire house’s supply. Laundry hoses, in particular, are a common cause of flooding when they burst unexpectedly.
3. Test & Maintain Your Sump Pump
If you have a basement sump pump, it’s critical to ensure it’s in working order before your trip—especially in spring when melting snow and heavy rains increase the risk of basement flooding.
How to test your sump pump:
- Pour a bucket of water into the sump pit.
- Watch to see if the pump activates and drains properly.
- Ensure the discharge line is clear and directs water away from your foundation.
If your sump pump is old, unreliable, or hasn’t been serviced recently, consider a professional inspection or a battery backup system to avoid failure during a storm.
4. Adjust Your Water Heater Settings
If you’re leaving for more than a few days, adjusting your water heater can save energy and prevent issues while you’re away.
Set it to “Vacation Mode” (if available) or lower the temperature to 50°F to reduce heating costs while preventing freezing in winter months.
If your water heater is old or unreliable, consider a maintenance check before your trip to avoid coming home to no hot water or a leaky tank.
5. Clear Drains & Toilets
A clogged drain or toilet can cause backups and bad odors if left unchecked. Before leaving, make sure all your sinks, bathtubs, and toilets drain properly.
DIY Tip: Pour hot water and vinegar down your drains to clear minor buildup.
For more serious clogs or slow drainage, schedule a professional drain cleaning to prevent unexpected sewer issues while you’re gone.
6. Inspect Outdoor Plumbing & Shut Off Exterior Faucets
If you’re leaving for an extended vacation, don’t forget about outdoor plumbing:
- Disconnect hoses and turn off exterior spigots to prevent damage from fluctuating temperatures.
- Check sprinkler systems to ensure they’re not leaking or running excessively in your absence.
- If you have an outdoor kitchen or plumbing, shut off the water supply to those fixtures as well.
7. Have a Trusted Contact Check In
If you’re going on an extended trip, ask a friend, neighbor, or family member to check on your home periodically.
They can:
✔️ Ensure no leaks or flooding have occurred.
✔️ Run the faucets/toilets occasionally to prevent stagnant water buildup.
✔️ Verify your sump pump is functioning properly during heavy rains.
8. Know Who to Call in an Emergency
Even with the best preparation, unexpected plumbing issues can arise. Before leaving, save DRC Plumbing and Sewer’s emergency contact information in your phone so you (or your house-sitter) can get fast service if needed.
Need a last-minute plumbing inspection before your trip?
Schedule a pre-vacation plumbing checkup with our team! We’ll ensure everything is in top shape so you can relax without worry.👉 Call DRC Plumbing and Sewer at 708-203-7057 to book your appointment today!