When leaving your home for extended periods, it’s essential to take proactive steps to protect your plumbing system. This prevents any major damage from happening in your absence. This guide will walk you through seven crucial plumbing maintenance tips to safeguard your pipes, fixtures, and appliances from common residential plumbing repairs that may arise when you’re not around.
Shut Off the Main Water Supply
Before you go, locate the main water shut-off valve in your home and turn it off. This action can prevent catastrophic water damage from leaks or broken pipes. Ensure everyone in your household knows how to do this in emergencies.
Insulate Exposed Pipes
If you live in an area with cold temperatures, consider insulating exposed pipes, especially those in basements, attics, and crawl spaces. This can help prevent freezing and bursting, a common issue in colder climates.
Drain Your Water Heater
To avoid sediment buildup and corrosion, consider draining your water heater. Turn off the gas or electricity, let the water cool, and then use the drain valve to empty the tank. This step can help extend the life of your water heater and reduce the risk of leaks.
Clear Drains and Gutters
Clogged drains and gutters can lead to water backup, which can damage your plumbing system. Before you leave, ensure your drains and gutters are free of debris to allow water to flow smoothly away from your home.
Use Plumbing Anti-Freeze
To avoid costly repairs, consider using plumbing anti-freeze in drains, toilets, and other fixtures for areas with extremely cold temperatures. This can help prevent freezing and subsequent damage while you’re away.
Perform Regular Maintenance Checks
Regularly check for leaks, drips, or signs of water damage in your home. Catching these issues early can prevent larger problems down the line. If you spot any problems, address them before leaving.
Arrange for Regular Inspections
If you’re leaving for an extended period, consider hiring a professional plumbing contractor to inspect your plumbing system before you go. They can identify potential issues and offer advice on how to prevent them.
Remember that even a small issue, like a slow leak, can lead to significant problems if left unattended. Taking the time to prepare your system and using these plumbing maintenance tips before you leave can save you from stress and expenses in the long run.
So, before you head out on your next trip, make sure to follow these simple steps to protect your home and your residential plumbing repair system. You don’t want to come back to a damaged home!
If you need emergency plumbing services in Schaumburg, choose FlowPro Plumbing. We are here to address your concerns in a timely manner so you can go on that trip with peace of mind.
Contact us for a quote.
