When you’re preparing for a vacation, the last thing you want to worry about is water damage in your home. But water-related issues like leaks, flooding, or a malfunctioning dishwasher can cause significant damage if left unchecked. By taking a few proactive steps, you can prevent water damage and enjoy your trip without any stress.
Check for Leaks and Repair Them
Before heading out on your vacation, make sure your home is free from any hidden leaks. Water damage often starts small, with a leaky pipe or faucet, and grows worse over time if not addressed.
Inspect all faucets, pipes, and appliances for leaks
- Check under sinks, around appliances, and along pipes for signs of moisture or water stains.
- Pay attention to dishwashers, water heaters, and any other appliances connected to your water supply.
Fix any leaks before leaving on your trip
- Replace worn-out seals on faucets or dishwashers.
- If necessary, hire a professional to repair major leaks that could lead to water damage while you are away.
Turn Off Main Water Supply
Shutting off your main water supply is one of the simplest and most effective ways to prevent water damage while you’re away. It eliminates the possibility of unexpected leaks or flooding.
Locate the main water shut-off valve in your home
- The main water valve is typically located near your water meter or where the water line enters your home.
- Familiarize yourself with how to shut it off before you leave to avoid any surprises.
Turn off the main water supply before leaving
- Shutting off the main water valve helps prevent any issues that may arise from leaks or malfunctioning appliances.
- This small action can save you from expensive repairs and potential water damage restoration services.
Install a Leak Detection System
One of the most advanced methods for water damage prevention is installing a smart leak detection system. These systems can alert you to leaks in real time, even when you’re miles away, providing peace of mind during your vacation.
Consider installing a smart leak detection system
- Smart systems can be installed in key areas like under sinks, near toilets, or around your water heater.
- These systems use sensors to detect moisture and send alerts to your phone, allowing you to take action immediately if something goes wrong.
Get alerts on your phone if any leaks are detected
- Many modern leak detection devices come with mobile apps that send alerts directly to your phone.
- You’ll be able to respond quickly and, if necessary, contact a neighbor or a professional to handle the situation.
Clear Gutters and Downspouts
Clogged gutters and downspouts are a common cause of water damage during heavy rainfall. Before you leave for your vacation, it’s important to clean out these areas to ensure water flows away from your home’s foundation.
Clean out gutters and downspouts to prevent water buildup
- Remove leaves, twigs, and debris from your gutters and downspouts.
- Check that the downspouts are clear and direct rainwater away from your foundation.
Ensure proper drainage away from the foundation of your home
- Make sure water flows at least 3-5 feet away from the foundation to prevent water damage and flooding in your basement or crawl space.
- Gutters and downspouts that direct water away from the foundation will help protect your home from future water-related issues.
Test Sump Pump
If your home has a sump pump, it’s essential to check it before leaving for your vacation. A functioning sump pump helps prevent flooding in your basement during heavy rainfall or water buildup.
Test your sump pump to ensure it is working properly
- Test your sump pump by pouring water into the sump basin to see if the pump activates and drains the water correctly.
- If it doesn’t turn on, clean the pump or call a professional to repair or replace it.
Have a backup power source for the sump pump
Power outages during storms can cause the sump pump to fail. Consider installing a battery backup or generator to ensure your pump works even during electrical disruptions.
Set Thermostat to Proper Temperature
One common issue when traveling is the possibility of frozen pipes during cold weather. Setting your thermostat to a proper temperature can help ensure that your pipes don’t freeze and burst while you’re away.
Adjust your thermostat to a temperature that will prevent frozen pipes
- Set your thermostat to a temperature no lower than 55°F (13°C). This ensures your pipes remain warm enough to avoid freezing.
- Even if you’re not home, this temperature will protect areas like basements or attics where pipes are more vulnerable to cold.
Keep your home at a moderate temperature while you are away
- If you’re going to be gone for an extended period, you may want to consider keeping the temperature a little higher to prevent any unexpected frozen pipes.
- Proper insulation around exposed pipes can help as well.
Ask a Neighbor or Friend to Check on Your Home
Having a trusted person check on your home while you’re away can provide an extra layer of protection against water damage. Regular checks ensure that potential issues are caught early, so you don’t return to any surprises.
Have a trusted neighbor or friend check on your home regularly
- Ask them to check for any signs of leaks, flooding, or moisture buildup around your appliances, pipes, and water heater.
- It’s also a good idea to have them turn on a few faucets to ensure that water is running properly and that there are no signs of leaks.
Have them look for any signs of water damage and address issues immediately
- The earlier water damage is detected, the easier and less expensive it is to fix.
- If your neighbor notices any issues, have them contact a water damage restoration service to handle it before the problem worsens.
Consider Purchasing Home Insurance
Sometimes, despite all your efforts to prevent water damage, accidents happen. Having the right home insurance can help you be prepared for any unforeseen water damage incidents while you’re traveling.
Be prepared for any unforeseen water damage incidents
- Homeowners insurance can cover the cost of repairs for unexpected water damage from floods, sewage backups, or pipe bursts.
- Review your insurance policy to make sure water damage is included and up-to-date for the areas that are most vulnerable in your home.
