Why Vacation Plumbing Prep is Critical

Plumbing disasters don't take vacations. In fact, they often seem to happen at the worst possible times - like when you're thousands of miles away enjoying a well-deserved break. A burst pipe or appliance failure can cause extensive water damage in just hours.

Shutting Off Your Water Supply

The most effective way to prevent water damage while you're away is to shut off your main water supply. This single action can prevent most plumbing disasters from causing significant damage to your home.

When to Shut Off Water:

• Always: Vacations longer than 4-5 days
• Consider: Weekend trips if your home has older plumbing
• Essential: Winter vacations in Des Plaines (freeze protection)
• Recommended: If you have a history of plumbing issues

How to Shut Off Your Main Water Supply:

1. Locate your main water shutoff valve (usually near where water enters your home)
2. Turn the valve clockwise until it stops (for wheel-type valves)
3. For lever-type valves, turn perpendicular to the pipe
4. Test by turning on a faucet - water should stop flowing within minutes
5. Leave one faucet slightly open to drain remaining water from pipes

Pre-Vacation Leak Inspection

Before leaving, conduct a thorough inspection of your home's plumbing to identify and fix any existing leaks. Small leaks can become major problems when left unattended for days or weeks.

Areas to Inspect:

• Under sinks: Check for drips, water stains, or soft spots
• Around toilets: Look for water at the base or loose connections
• Water heater: Check for rust, corrosion, or pooled water
• Washing machine: Inspect hoses for bulges, cracks, or leaks
• Dishwasher: Check connections and look for water damage
• Basement/crawl space: Look for signs of moisture or leaks

Quick Leak Detection Test:

1. Turn off all water-using appliances and fixtures
2. Read your water meter and record the numbers
3. Wait 2 hours without using any water
4. Check the meter again - if numbers changed, you have a leak
5. Fix any leaks before departing

Preparing Water-Using Appliances

Water-using appliances are common sources of leaks and failures. Taking a few minutes to prepare each appliance can prevent costly damage while you're away.

Washing Machine:

• Turn off hot and cold water supply valves
• Inspect hoses for wear, bulges, or cracks
• Consider replacing rubber hoses with braided stainless steel
• Clean the lint filter and run an empty cleaning cycle

Dishwasher:

• Run a complete cycle before leaving to ensure proper drainage
• Check the door seals for wear or damage
• Turn off the water supply valve if accessible
• Leave the door slightly open to air dry and prevent odors

Refrigerator (with ice maker/water dispenser):

• Turn off the ice maker
• Check water line connections behind the refrigerator
• Consider shutting off the water supply valve
• Empty and clean the ice bin

Drain and Toilet Preparation

Proper drain and toilet preparation prevents sewer gas odors and potential backups while you're away. These simple steps take just minutes but can prevent unpleasant surprises upon your return.

Drain Maintenance:

• Pour water down all drains to fill P-traps (prevents sewer gas)
• Add a small amount of mineral oil to slow evaporation
• Check floor drains in basements and laundry rooms
• Ensure all drains are flowing freely before departure

Toilet Preparation:

• Check for running toilets and fix any issues
• Ensure the toilet isn't rocking (could indicate seal problems)
• Consider turning off individual toilet supply valves
• Add a few drops of food coloring to tank - if color appears in bowl, you have a leak

Water Heater Considerations

Your water heater continues to work even when you're not home, potentially wasting energy and creating risks. Proper preparation can save energy and prevent problems.

For Short Trips (1-7 days):

• Lower temperature to "vacation" setting (around 50°F)
• This saves energy while maintaining some heat
• Prevents complete cooling that could cause condensation issues

For Extended Trips (1+ weeks):

• Consider turning off the water heater completely
• Turn off gas supply (for gas water heaters)
• Turn off electrical breaker (for electric water heaters)
• Remember: it will take time to reheat when you return

Emergency Contacts and Plans

Even with the best preparation, emergencies can happen. Having a plan and reliable contacts can minimize damage if something goes wrong while you're away.

Essential Contacts to Leave with Neighbors/House Sitters:

• Narsso Plumbing Emergency Line: +1-847-242-1286
• Your water utility company
• Your insurance agent
• A trusted neighbor or local friend
• Your home security system company

Information to Provide:

• Location of main water shutoff valve
• Location of electrical panel and water heater shutoff
• Your vacation contact information
• Insurance policy information
• Any specific instructions for your home

What to Do When You Return

Returning from vacation requires careful attention to your plumbing system. Follow these steps to safely restore your home's water supply and check for any issues that may have occurred.

Step-by-Step Return Process:

1. Visual inspection: Walk through your home looking for signs of water damage
2. Turn on main water supply: Slowly open the main valve
3. Check for leaks: Listen for unusual sounds or running water
4. Test fixtures gradually: Turn on faucets one at a time
5. Flush toilets: Check for proper operation
6. Restart water heater: Follow manufacturer's instructions
7. Run appliances: Test dishwasher, washing machine, etc.
8. Check water pressure: Ensure normal pressure throughout the home