The Ultimate Plumbing Checklist Before Leaving on Vacation

A relaxing vacation starts with peace of mind at home. Leaks, clogs, or water heater issues can quickly become costly disasters when no one’s around to catch them. This ultimate plumbing checklist gives you the exact steps to safeguard your home so you can enjoy your time away without plumbing worries lurking in the background.

Why a Plumbing Check Matters

Identifying and addressing plumbing issues is vital for protecting the integrity of your home. If you are on vacation, you are not present to see issues. Following a pre-vacation plumbing checklist ensures you identify any issues before you leave town. You can prevent a problem from happening while you are gone or prevent further damage from an existing issue.  A quick check can give you peace of mind, allowing you to enjoy your vacation fully. 

The Ultimate Pre-Vacation Plumbing Checklist

Start by creating a vacation plumbing checklist that you can follow each time you prepare to travel. You already have many things to think about, so a checklist ensures you do not forget anything. 

Inspect Visible Pipes & Fixtures

Take a moment to look at all of the visible pipes and fixtures throughout the home. Look for drips, dampness, or corrosion. Pay attention to sinks, toilets, and water heaters. Look under the visible pipes for evidence of dripping. 

Test All Drains

Check the drainage in showers, tubs, sinks, and toilets. Look for slow drainage, gurgling, strange odors, or blockages. If you discover a blockage, proactively clear it before leaving. 

Shut Off or Adjust Water Supply

For vacations longer than a weekend, consider turning off the main valve. If you don’t want to shut off the water to the whole house, consider shutting it off for the major appliances. Turn on vacation mode or lower the temperature on your water heater to save energy and prevent overheating.

Clean Appliances & Gutters

Run final cycles on the washer and dishwasher. If you can, unplug them and leave doors ajar. Clear gutters, outdoor drains, and garbage disposals to prevent clogs, odors, and overflow.

Ask Someone to Check In

If you are going to be gone for an extended period of time, ask a friend, neighbor, or family member to check on the home. Give them the contact information for where you will be so they can contact you if there is an issue.

Create Your Vacation Plumbing Checklist

Vacations are meant for rest and adventure, not worrying about what’s happening back home. A simple plumbing check ensures your return is just as relaxing as your getaway. 

If you’d like expert eyes on your system before you leave, contact Pro-Service Plumbing for a pre-vacation inspection.