7 Plumber’s Precautions To Observe Before Going For A Vacation | Hurst, TX
Most people take vacations to escape the stresses of their everyday lives, but sometimes those stresses can follow you on vacation. Your plumbing is an example of something that can easily go wrong while you’re away, leaving you with a mess to come home to. You don’t want a call to a plumber to be the first thing on your to-do list when you return from a relaxing vacation, so take some time before you leave to ensure your plumbing is in good shape. This article will outline 7 tips to help you avoid plumbing disasters while away.
Get an Inspection
One of the most important plumbing precautions to take before going on vacation is to get a professional inspection. This will ensure that your home’s plumbing system is in good working order and that there are no hidden leaks or potential problems. A plumbing inspection typically thoroughly examines all pipes, fixtures, and drains. The plumber will also check the water pressure and ensure that the sewer line is properly connected.
If any repairs are needed, the plumber can make them before you leave so that you don’t have to worry about them while you’re gone. In addition, getting an inspection is a great way to catch small problems before they turn into big ones. So, if you’re planning a trip, schedule an appointment with your local plumber.
Pump Your Septic Tank
A sewage backup is the worst nightmare for any homeowner. If you are going on a vacation for an extended period, you must pump your septic tank before leaving. This will help prevent any sewage backups while you’re away. Most septic tanks need to be pumped every three to five years, but if yours hasn’t been done in a while, it’s better to be safe than sorry. Hiring a plumber to pump your septic tank is cheaper than dealing with the mess of a sewage backup, so it’s worth the investment.
Clean Your Drains
As you prepare for your next vacation, don’t forget to add “clean the drains” to your checklist. It may not be the most glamorous task, but it’s important. Dirty drains can quickly become a plumbing nightmare, especially when you’re away from home. For example, the drains can be clogged, leading to water backup and flooding. Or, if there is food or grease build-up, it can attract pests like rodents and cockroaches. Therefore, before leaving for a long vacation, call a plumber in Hurst, TX, to clean your drains. This will help ensure that your home is safe and clean while you’re away.
Turn Off the Water Supply
Before leaving on vacation, one of the most important plumbing precautions is to turn off the water supply. This will help prevent any accidental leaks or flooding while you’re away. If a pipe bursts while you’re away, the water will flow unchecked and can cause serious damage to your home. To prevent this, turn off the main water supply to your home before you leave.
Depending on your home’s plumbing system, there are several ways to turn off your water supply. For example, you can turn off your home’s main water valve. Or, if you have an individual shut-off valve for each fixture, you can turn off the valves for the fixtures that will be unused while you’re gone. Whichever method you use, leave a note for anyone who may be home in your absence, so they know where to find the shut-off valves. And if you are unsure how to turn off your water supply, contact a professional plumber.
Turn Off All Power to Your Appliances and Unplug Them
Before leaving for vacation, turn off all power to your appliances and unplug them before leaving for vacation. This is especially true for water appliances like washing machines, dishwashers, and refrigerators. By unplugging these appliances, you can help prevent costly repairs or replacements in the event of a plumbing mishap. For example, if a washing machine leaks while you are away, the resulting water damage could be extensive.
However, if the machine is unplugged, the leak will be contained, and the damage will be minimized. In addition, unplugging your appliances will help save energy and lower your monthly utility bills. So before you head out on your next vacation, take this simple precautionary measure to protect your Hurst, TX home.
Disconnect any Hoses or Cords from Outdoor Spigots
If you have any hoses or cords connected to your outdoor fixtures, disconnect them before leaving on vacation. Your outdoor spigots are the weak link in your home’s plumbing system and are susceptible to breakage. If a hose or cord is left connected, it can put undue stress on the fixture and cause it to break. This can lead to a serious plumbing leak that can cause extensive damage to your home. To avoid this, disconnect any hoses or cords from your outdoor spigots before leaving for vacation.
Install a Water Leak Detection System
If you’re concerned about avoiding water damage while away, consider installing a water leak detection system in your home. These systems are designed to shut off the water supply automatically in case of a plumbing leak. This can help prevent a small leak from becoming a big problem. Get a plumber to install a water leak detection system in your home before your next vacation. This simple precaution can save you a lot of time, money, and headaches down the road.
Let Our Plumbing Professionals Help You Protect Your Home From Water Damage
Your home is your biggest investment, so it’s important to take steps to protect it from water damage. If you’re concerned about the potential for plumbing problems while you’re away, our team at Tioga Plumbing & Electric can help. We offer various services to help keep your home safe and sound, including drain cleaning, leak detection, and more. Contact us today to learn more about how we can help you protect your Hurst, TX home from water damage. Our plumbers are here to help 24/7, so don’t hesitate to call us anytime, day or night.
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