Summer is in full swing, meaning it’s time to plan your summer break, paid time off, and vacation opportunities! Now that the country is opening back up, there are plenty of out-of-town vacation destinations to enjoy. You probably already have items such as “Turn off Lights” and “Check the Stove” on little post-its by the door, but your plumbing requires a little extra attention. Just in case you’re a little rusty on pre-vacation preparation protocol, we’ve prepared a handy plumbing checklist for all you vacationers.
Plumbing Checklist Before You Leave the House on Vacation
Your plumbing goes beyond the bathroom! As you complete your final walkthrough of the house, remember to check these important items off your plumbing checklist:
Shut Off Water Supply
If you are leaving the house for the weekend, this step is still a great precaution but not a necessity. If you are leaving for an extended period of time, then this easy task can prevent major flooding in the event of a plumbing emergency. For example, if you happen to have a damaged or faulty pipe burst while you’re away, you won’t have to worry about water pouring into your home.
It is possible that your water system extends beyond the home, and you need it to stay on for sprinklers or pool pumps. No worries! Simply turn off individual fixtures manually. If there is a plumbing emergency, this precaution can still minimize flooding.
Test Your Sump Pump
Summer storms are as unpredictable as they are frustrating. You never know when a storm will arrive out of nowhere and unleash a ton of water on your home in a short period of time. If you know that your home is susceptible to flooding or your basement has flooded in the past, you will want to perform a sump pump test before you leave. To test your pump, pour a bucket of water into the sump pit and verify that it is operating smoothly. A major cause of pump failure is due to debris that has entered the sump pit. Be sure to periodically clean the pit to avoid drainage issues.
Set Your Water Heater to “Vacation Mode”
A plumber will be able to inspect your water heater for leaks before you leave for vacation. Turn our has to the “vacation” setting or “pilot” and turn the incoming water valve off.
Clean Your Drains and Gutters
Not all plumbing maintenance tasks can be as simple as turning a knob or flipping a switch. But some of the most important priorities take a little elbow grease!
- Gutters. Before you leave for vacation, remove debris from your gutters to prevent any rainwater from accumulating on your roof. If there is heavy rainfall in your area, clean gutters will help prevent water from getting into your home.
- Drains. There’s nothing worse than returning home after a long trip to a pungent odor. Clearing your drains of gunk and clogs can prevent food residue from sitting for an extended period. Ask Al Bourgeois Plumbing about our drain cleaning services!
Have a Friend, Neighbor, or Family Member Check-In
Everyone should have a “plumbing buddy.” That person you can count on to check on your house periodically to make sure everything is in working order. If you are going to be out of town for an extended period of time, buy your neighbor a nice bottle of wine and ask if they can do one or two walk-throughs to make sure nothing is amiss.
Protect Your Plumbing with Al Bourgeois Plumbing Maintenance!
If you’re going out of town and need a plumbing check-up, call Al Bourgeois Plumbing! Our experts will evaluate your plumbing needs and get your plumbing in tip-top shape for your next trip. Request your service today! Or call (504) 521-6070 for more information!
