7 Tips for Preparing Your Plumbing Systems for Travel During the Holidays 

Saturday, 07 December 2019 03:50
7 Tips for Preparing Your Plumbing Systems for Travel During the Holidays 

Every year, nearly 100 million of us take to the road, the rails, and the skies to visit family and friends for the holidays. While we’re worrying about the presents we need to wrap, the items we need to pack, or the Ubers we need to order when we arrive, there is another concern to think about: plumbing. If it didn’t make your busy holiday to-do list, you’re not alone! But by taking a few easy steps, you can prepare your plumbing system for winter - and for your absence. 

Drops in temperature can have a significant impact on your plumbing system. To prevent big problems down the road, take a bit of time to prep for the cold weather and any absences you are planning. The last thing you want to deal with when you come back from holiday travel is burst pipes, a damaged roof, or some smelly sewer line issues.

 

Making a (Chore) List - and Checking It Twice 

Before you go away, prepare your plumbing for winter weather:

  1. Start with the Basics. Remove any hoses you have outside of your home. If they freeze, they can lead to burst pipes inside your home. Check faucets and spigots for leaks. You’ll also want to clean out your gutters. We know… this is no one’s favorite job! But when you remove all of the dirt, debris, twigs, and other gunk that accumulates up there, you will have proper drainage and prevent water from falling around your foundation - this can lead to big (expensive) problems.
  2. Snake Your Sewer Line. Speaking of jobs that no one likes: snaking the sewer line is a proactive measure that can help you avoid major issues. Fall and winter is a good time to clear debris that may have built up in the line. Feel free to call us, and we’ll be right over to take care of that for you. 
  3. Make Sure Your Pipes Are Insulated. A small investment in insulation can save you from the hassle and expense of frozen pipes. Pay close attention to unheated areas, such as crawl spaces, garages, basements, etc.
  4. Have Your Sump Pump Checked. This plumbing component pumps water away from your home to prevent flooding and water damage. Having a pro come out and give it a check-over is a smart move.
  1. Prep Your Home for Vacation. If you are going to be away for an extended period of time, shut off your main water valve, drain your faucets, and turn your heat down to 50 - 60 °F. Don’t turn it off completely because this puts your pipes at risk for freezing. 
  2. Clear Your Garbage Disposal. Make sure that all food particles have been “flushed” from the disposal. Run water until you are sure - and this way, you won’t have to come home to a smell house!
  3. Get Someone to Check On Your Home. If you have a trusted friend or family member who is willing to pop in and check on your house, it’s a wise decision. They can alert you to any issues - or prevent them in the first place!

Before you go away to enjoy the holidays, take these easy steps to ensure a worry-free return home. If you have any questions or need help getting your to-do list done, call the most trusted plumbers in Iredell County. 

More in this category: « What to Do in a Plumbing Emergency 5 Winter Plumbing Tips for Statesville  »
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