Fixing plumbing problems such as clogged drains or dripping faucets is easy if you are at home. If you are familiar with the plumbing basics, you can do this on your own. If not, www.firstandmainpm.com advises that you call a professional plumber for help.
Things are different, however, if you’re on vacation and an unexpected plumbing emergency comes up at home. After enjoying a relaxing and fulfilling trip, you will likely be greeted by a flood in your basement or a foul-smelling bathroom upon returning.
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Tips to Avoid Plumbing Problems When You’re Away
Plumbing emergencies are bad news. The strange thing is that they seem to happen when you are away from home and enjoying a well-deserved vacation.
There are many ways to prevent indoor plumbing lines from suffering any damage that can affect your appliances and your home. Consider the following so you can have a fun-filled vacation without worrying about any plumbing disaster that could welcome you when you return home:
1. Ensure that you turn off the main water valve.
It is the best and most efficient way to avoid plumbing problems such as leakage and burst pipes. For this, you must familiarize yourself with the location of your main water supply line and the shutoff valves. It will make it easy for you to identify the source of any sudden plumbing problem.
If you’re planning a winter getaway, pretty much all plumbing companies in Colorado Springs would probably say you should check the operation of your water valves. If they work fine, shut them off carefully but never force them. During winter, it’s not uncommon for these valves to become stuck or frozen.
To prevent leaking inside the house, turn off the shutoff valves found behind the toilet and under the sinks. The water supply valve behind your washing machine should also be shut off before you leave for that much-awaited out-of-town trip.
2. Check your garden sprinkler valve and turn it off.
Some homes have automatic garden sprinkler valves that are kept open even when the owners are not around. It is to allow the plants to have their regular water supply without manual intervention. It’s risky as the sprinkler heads could drip even after the system automatically shuts down. It’s best to completely shut off your main water supply if you’re leaving home, reducing the possibility of having a plumbing emergency like a flooded garden or lawn.
3. Fix any small leaks that you discover.
Before you hit the road, check your property and look for any cracks or leaks in your water lines. Even a tiny pinhole leak can lead to significant plumbing problems.
Do not delay fixing a problem with your plumbing lines if you find one. Get professional assistance immediately to prevent this from developing into a major disaster.
4. Drain all water lines in the home.
If you plan to go on a winter vacation, frozen pipes are a problem that could surprise you when you return. After shutting off the water valves, let your plumbing lines drain any remaining water. It is a preventive step to ensure your pipes won’t freeze or burst when the temperature drops.
5. Remove all clogs from the drains and the garbage disposal.
Although it may not seem like a major plumbing problem, you should still clean your garbage disposal and sinks before leaving. Otherwise, you may have to deal with a foul-smelling kitchen when you return home.
Also, check your drains for stubborn debris that refuses to go down. If possible, flush them with water so your drains remain clean even when not in use.
6. Ask a friend to check your house.
Part of your vacation plans should be to ask a trusted friend to come in and look after your house, water the plants, collect the mail, and take care of your pets. If they have an observant eye, your friend could easily spot any potential plumbing problems before they become serious.
7. Ask your plumber to perform plumbing maintenance.
Even if your plumbing system is well-maintained, it’s still a good idea to have a professional plumber inspect them before you leave. It is important if you’re going away for an extended vacation.
Key Takeaway
If your plumbing is one of the reasons you keep putting off that long-delayed vacation, there are several things you can do to make it come true finally. Make a list of the things that will prevent a plumbing emergency from occurring while you’re away. The list need not be extensive and can include simple things like asking a close friend to check up on your house, turning off your main water supply line, and getting a plumber to inspect your pipes.
Simply put, you can still enjoy your vacation without bothering yourself with frustrating plumbing issues. Plan before you leave; this should include taking all preventive steps so plumbing emergencies will not happen.
