Ah, vacation time! The mere thought of it fills us with excitement and joy. But before you embark on your adventure, let’s ensure your home’s plumbing is ready to chill out too. Don’t let plumbing mishaps ruin your vacation vibes!

1. Leak Inspection: Hunt Down the Sneaky Drips!

Let’s turn into plumbing detectives! Grab your magnifying glass and investigate every nook and cranny for leaks. Check under sinks, around toilets, and in the basement for any suspicious drips. Be on the lookout for wet spots or funky stains on walls or floors – those might be crafty hints of hidden leaks. Foil those leaks like a superhero by calling in a professional plumber if you spot anything fishy!

2. Unblock those Drains: Wave Goodbye to Clogs!

Clogged drains are party poopers. But fear not, we’ve got the perfect moves to unclog them! Before you jet off, make sure all sinks, showers, and toilets are dancing to the drain-beat. If you encounter a slow, groovy drain, grab your plunger or drain snake and show it who’s boss! Chemical drain cleaners are out of style, so keep it funky and avoid them to protect your plumbing pipes.

3. Keep Drains Fresh and Odor-Free:

No one wants to return from vacation to a smelly surprise lurking in the drains. To ensure a sweet-smelling homecoming, here’s a simple trick to keep those drains fresh and odor-free. Before you depart, pour a mixture of equal parts vinegar and baking soda down each drain. Let it fizz and work its magic for about 15 minutes. Then, flush the drains with hot water. This natural and bubbly concoction will help prevent any unpleasant odors from wafting through your home while you’re away. So, bid farewell to drain smells and embrace a fragrant return from your vacation! Pro tip: make sure you also empty your dishwasher and washing machine prior to leaving!

4. Toilet Troubles? No More!

Toilets misbehaving? Let’s give them a crash course in manners! Before your departure, make sure all toilets are flush-tastic and leak-free. Give them a gentle shake to ensure they’re steady on their feet. To catch sneaky leaks, add a few drops of food coloring to the tank. If you spot a magical rainbow in the bowl, it’s time to call in the experts to save the day!

5. Protect Your Water Heater: The Vacation Drain and Turn-Off Dance!

While you’re soaking up the sun on vacation, don’t forget to give some TLC to your faithful water heater. Here’s a quick routine to ensure its well-being:

a) Drain the Water Heater: Before you leave, it’s a good idea to drain your water heater to prevent any potential issues. Locate the drain valve near the bottom of the heater and attach a hose to it. Place the other end of the hose in a suitable drainage area, like a floor drain or outside. Open the valve and let the water flow out until it stops. This will help remove sediment buildup and reduce the risk of corrosion during your absence.

b) Turn Off the Water Heater: To give your water heater a well-deserved break while you’re away, turn off its power supply. Locate the circuit breaker dedicated to the water heater and switch it off. This step will help save energy and prevent any malfunctions that may occur in your absence.

c) Bonus Tip: Set Vacation Mode: If your water heater has a vacation mode feature, take advantage of it! Many modern water heaters have this setting, which lowers the temperature and energy usage while you’re away. Consult your water heater’s manual or check with the manufacturer to see if this option is available and how to activate it.

By performing this water heater dance, you’ll ensure its longevity and energy efficiency while enjoying your vacation. Remember to reverse the steps when you return, filling the heater and turning the power back on, so you can relish in warm showers upon your homecoming. Happy vacationing and happy water heater care! If you need help doing this before or after vacation, don’t hesitate to give us a call!

6. Let’s Party…After Shutting Off the Water!

Now, for the grand finale, it’s time to party like there’s no tomorrow…after shutting off the main water supply, of course! Locate the main shut-off valve, usually near the water meter or where the water line enters your house. Give it a confident twist, and voila! You’ve taken the ultimate step to prevent any plumbing surprises while you’re sipping cocktails on the beach or exploring new horizons.

Don’t Forget to Call Us if You Need Anything!

We’re here to help! If you do not feel comfortable handling any of these steps, we understand and that’s what we’re here for. Call us at 225-754-2549 and we’ll be happy to take care of you.