No one wants to come home from a relaxing vacation to a plumbing disaster. Before you head out of town for an extended period of time, it's important to take some simple steps to protect your home's plumbing system. By leak-proofing your faucets and toilets and shutting off your water main, you can rest assured that your home will be in good shape when you return.
Here's a quick checklist to help you get started:
Checking for Leaky Faucets
One of the first things you should do before leaving town for an extended period of time is check all of your faucets for leaks. Even a small leak can waste a lot of water, so it's important to fix it before you go.
To check for leaks, simply turn on all of the faucets in your home and look for any drips. If you find any, tighten the fixtures until the leak stops. You may also want to consider replacing any worn washers or other parts to prevent future leaks.
Checking for Running Toilets:
Another potential source of water waste is a running toilet. If your toilet is leaky, it can waste a lot of water over time. Before you leave town, take a few minutes to check that your toilets are in good working order.
To check for leaks, simply flush the toilet and watch the water level in the bowl. If it doesn't go down after a few seconds, there's a good chance your toilet is leaky. You'll need to replace the flapper or another part of the flush valve assembly to fix it.
Shutting Off Your Water Main:
If you're going to be gone for an extended period of time, it's a good idea to shut off your home's water main. This will help prevent any accidental water damage while you're away.
Simply locate the main shut-off valve and turn it to the "off" position to shut off your water main. Once the valve is turned off, your home's plumbing system will be isolated from the water supply. You'll need to turn the valve back on when you return.
By taking these simple precautions, you can avoid any plumbing disasters while you're away and keep the vacation bliss flowing all summer long. So relax and enjoy your time off, knowing that your home is in good hands!