Going on vacation is an exciting time, but it’s crucial to ensure that your home is protected while you’re away. One of the ways you can protect your home is by ensuring that your water is turned off.
In this blog post, we will discuss the importance of turning off the water supply, the potential risks of leaving it on, and provide valuable tips to safeguard your home. As a trusted plumbing company, All Pro Plumbing, Heating, Air & Electrical is here to help you make an informed decision.
Why You Should Turn Off the Water Before Vacation
The main reason why you should turn off your home’s water supply before going on vacation is because you won’t be around to address an emergency should it occur.
Plumbing accidents can happen when you least expect them to, whether it’s a burst pipe, leaky water heater, or another issue that can cause damage to your home when left unaddressed. By turning off the water before going on vacation, you can prevent a plumbing emergency or limit the extent of damage one could cause.
How Do I Turn Off the Water Going into My Home?
Depending on the age of your home, it’s likely that there’s a main shutoff valve located somewhere near the point where the water pipe enters the house. This valve should be clearly labeled and usually consists of a handle that is turned clockwise to close the valve.
In more modern homes, a second shutoff valve may be located near each fixture and appliance that uses water, such as toilets, sinks, showers, and washing machines. These are typically much smaller valves than the main shutoff valve and should also be clearly labeled. Turning these individual valves will allow you to stop the flow of water to a specific fixture or appliance without shutting off the entire plumbing system.
If you’re still having trouble locating your shutoff valve, it might be helpful to contact a plumber or other professional for assistance. They will be able to quickly locate and identify the main shutoff valve as well as any individual valves associated with fixtures and appliances in your home.
Address Plumbing Repairs & Maintenance Before Leaving
If you are aware of any problems with your plumbing system, you should address these before leaving on vacation. Even if you turn off the water going into your home, the water already in your system can still leak and cause damage.
The best way to reduce the chances of this happening is to ensure your home’s plumbing is in good condition, and a professional plumber can help. All Pro Plumbing, Heating, Air & Electrical can inspect your plumbing to ensure there are no obvious faults that need immediate attention, such as an active leak. We can also assess the likelihood of a serious problem developing in the near future.
Conclusion
At All Pro Plumbing, Heating, Air & Electrical, we understand the significance of a well-maintained plumbing system. As you plan your vacation, don’t overlook the importance of turning off the water supply to protect your home. By following the tips mentioned above, you can minimize the risk of water damage and plumbing emergencies while you’re away.
Contact us today for professional assistance in ensuring your home is secure before your next trip.