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8 Plumbing Maintenance Tips to Follow Before Going on Summer Vacation

Posted by on 12-06-2025

8 plumbing maintenance tips to follow before going on summer vacation

After months of ice, snow, and shovelling, a summer escape sounds like a dream. You’ve booked the flights, lined up the excursions, and even pre-packed the sunscreen. But while you’re ready to unplug, your house isn’t going anywhere. And nothing kills a post-vacation glow faster than returning to a soggy basement or a surprise plumbing disaster.

Here’s how to make sure your pipes don’t throw a party while you’re away.

1. Turn Off the Main Water Supply

If you’re leaving for more than a few days, turn off your home’s main water valve. This simple move can stop a small leak from turning into a full-blown flood.

You’ll usually find the shut-off valve in the basement, near where the water line enters your home. Not sure where to look? A quick call to your local plumber will solve that mystery.

Once the water is off, drain the pipes by opening the taps and letting the water run out. Don’t forget to flush the toilets to clear out the tanks. That extra five minutes could save you thousands in water damage repairs.

When you get back, double-check that all the taps are turned off before restoring the water flow.

2. Prep Your Water Heater

Leaving your water heater on while you’re away is like burning money. If it has a vacation or eco mode, use it. If not, turn the temperature down to its lowest setting. This keeps things from freezing during an unexpected cold snap and trims your utility bill.

For longer trips, consider draining the tank entirely. Turn off the water supply to the heater, connect a hose to the drain valve, and let it empty into a floor drain or outside. This helps prevent sediment buildup, which can clog and reduce efficiency over time.

When you return, close the drain valve, turn the water back on, and let the tank fill before flipping the power or gas back on.

3. Clear the Drains

Backups can happen even when you’re not around. A slow drain or partial clog today can become a full blockage tomorrow.

Before heading out, pour a mixture of vinegar and baking soda down each drain. Let it fizz for 10 to 15 minutes, then flush with hot water. This natural combo breaks down grease and organic gunk without harming your pipes.

This is especially useful in older homes or if you’ve had drain issues before. Giving your pipes a spa day while you’re on vacation isn’t a bad idea.

4. Sprinkler System Check

If you’ve got an automatic sprinkler system, set it to run early in the morning or late at night to minimize evaporation.

No timer? Ask a neighbour or friend to water the plants a few times a week. It beats coming home to a crispy lawn or, worse, an overwatered swamp because the hose got left on.

And while you’re at it, make sure no sprinkler heads are leaking or spraying the house. Water directed at your foundation can sneak into the basement.

5. Install Smart Water Detectors

Smart home tech isn’t just for thermostats and doorbells. Wi-Fi-enabled water leak detectors are a game changer, especially when you’re not home to see the mess.

Place them near major appliances and plumbing fixtures: under sinks, beside the water heater, behind the washing machine, and near the sump pump. If a leak starts, you’ll get an instant alert on your phone.

Some systems even shut the water off automatically. Worth every penny if you want peace of mind while sipping margaritas on the beach.

6. Inspect for Leaks Before You Leave

Walk through your home with a detective’s eye. Check under sinks, behind the toilet, and along exposed pipes for any damp spots, drips, or odd smells. Discoloured patches on ceilings or walls? That’s a red flag.

Do this at least a week before you leave. That gives you time to call in a plumber for repairs, instead of panicking the night before your flight.

7. Ask a Neighbour or Friend to Check In

If you’ve got a neighbour you trust, ask them to swing by every few days. A five-minute check-in could catch a burst pipe, overflowing toilet, or broken water heater before it causes major damage.

If your neighbourhood is tight-knit, this can also double as a basic security check. Mail piling up and porch lights staying off for a week are a dead giveaway you’re away.

No reliable neighbour? Ask a friend or family member to help out. Bonus points if they know where your shut-off valve is.

8. Schedule a Pre-Vacation Plumbing Inspection

A professional plumbing inspection gives you a clear picture of any potential problems lurking in your system. Catching them before you leave means fewer surprises when you get back.

We always recommend regular maintenance, but if you’re planning to be away for a couple of weeks or more, scheduling an extra check-up is a smart move. You’d service your car before a road trip; your plumbing deserves the same attention.

At Drain King Plumbers, we believe prevention beats panic every time. We’re based in Hamilton and proud to help homeowners prep their homes before a well-earned holiday. Whether it’s a quick inspection or emergency repair, we’ve got your back.

Final Plumbing Checklist Before Leaving for Vacation

Before you start packing the trunk or ordering that overpriced airport coffee, check one last thing off your list: your home’s plumbing. A quick call to your plumber could be the difference between a stress-free return and a soggy, expensive mess waiting for you.

Contact Drain King Plumbers at 1-833-983-5663 or book online to schedule your pre-vacation check-up.

Then head out and enjoy your trip, knowing your home’s plumbing is ready for anything while you’re away.

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