Getting ready for a long vacation is exciting, whether you are escaping to the Caribbean or exploring Europe. Before you lock the door and head out, there is one essential step you should not skip: preparing your plumbing.
Ignoring your plumbing before a long trip can turn your getaway into a disaster when you return home. Even a small leak or a burst pipe can cause thousands in damage. Taking a little time now can save you major headaches later.
The team at Reynolds Electric, Plumbing, Heating and Air understands the unique challenges homeowners face in the Pacific Northwest. Proper preparation is one of the best ways to protect your home while you are away, which is why we put together this simple guide.
Why Vacation Prep Matters for Plumbing Systems
Your plumbing is always under pressure, and an empty house gives small problems plenty of time to grow. A leak that would normally be noticed within minutes can go undetected for days or weeks.
A slow drip can soak flooring, drywall and wood framing. Left alone long enough, it can cause mold, structural damage and costly repairs. If you leave seeking warmer weather and Eugene experiences a cold snap, pipes in unheated crawlspaces, attics or exterior walls may freeze. When water freezes, it expands and can split a pipe. Once the pipe thaws, water floods in fast.
These risks make preparing your plumbing a simple but smart way to protect your biggest investment. It can reduce energy waste, protect your home and help you enjoy your vacation with peace of mind.
Steps to Protect Pipes, Fixtures and Water Heaters
Our plumbers put together a checklist to help safeguard your home against the most common plumbing problems that happen while homeowners are away.
Turn Off the Main Water Supply
This is the most important step you can take. Turning off the main water supply prevents leaks or pressure failures from leading to major flooding.
Your shut-off valve is usually located in the basement, utility closet, garage or near the water meter. Turn it all the way off. Gate valves with round handles should be turned clockwise until tight. Ball valves with levers should be turned so the lever is perpendicular to the pipe.
After shutting off the water, open the highest faucet in your home and then the lowest one to drain out remaining water. This relieves pressure and gives pipes added protection against temperature changes.
Protect Your Water Heater
If you are going to be gone for a while, you should not leave your water heater running normally.
For electric water heaters, use Vacation Mode if your model includes it. This keeps water at a safe, low temperature, usually around 50 degrees Fahrenheit. If your heater does not have this setting, you can turn off the circuit breaker.
For gas water heaters, turn the thermostat to the lowest setting or to Pilot. Avoid shutting off the gas completely unless you plan to have a professional relight the unit when you return.
If you are leaving during extremely cold weather or for a very long trip, consider draining the tank. This should only be done after shutting off the heat source and is best handled by a Reynolds Electric, Plumbing, Heating and Air professional.
Repair Minor Plumbing Issues
Fix dripping faucets, running toilets or slow drains before you leave. These small issues can become much bigger if left alone for weeks. Taking care of them ahead of time also means your plumbing system will be ready to go when you get back.
Common Issues That Happen When Plumbing Is Ignored
Small plumbing problems can quickly grow when no one is home to catch them. Hidden leaks can lead to mold, rot and damaged drywall. Clogged drains can worsen and cause backups or foul odors. Old or corroded pipes may weaken and rupture. Changes in water pressure may hint at deeper issues. Even a running toilet can waste hundreds of gallons of water while you are away.
Addressing these issues early is always easier and cheaper than cleaning up the damage later. Returning from vacation should be relaxing, not stressful.
Professional Plumbing Services in Eugene, OR
Reynolds Electric, Plumbing, Heating and Air provides trusted plumbing, heating and cooling services in Eugene, OR and surrounding areas. We offer pre-vacation plumbing inspections to identify issues such as aging pipes, worn hoses or water heater concerns.
Our services include:
- Full winterization
- Main shut-off installations
- Complete plumbing system checks
Enjoy your trip knowing your home is protected by experienced professionals.
Contact Reynolds Electric, Plumbing, Heating and Air today to schedule your pre-vacation plumbing inspection. We will help you return home to comfort and peace of mind, not repairs and unexpected damage.
