Planning a vacation or leaving your property vacant for an extended period should be stress-free. The last thing any homeowner or business owner wants is to return to
water damage, sewer backups, or expensive plumbing repairs.
The good news? With a few simple preventative steps, you can protect your plumbing system, avoid emergencies, and save money while you’re away.
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Shut Off the Main Water Supply
One of the most effective ways to prevent plumbing disasters is to
turn off the main water valve before leaving. If a pipe bursts or a fitting fails while you’re gone, water can continue flowing for days — causing severe structural damage and mold growth.
If completely shutting off water isn’t possible (for example, sprinkler systems or certain commercial operations), consider shutting off water to individual fixtures or zones.
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Protect Pipes from Freezing
Cold temperatures can cause pipes to freeze and burst, especially in basements, crawl spaces, and exterior walls.
Before leaving:
- Set your thermostat no lower than
55°F (13°C)
- Insulate exposed pipes
- Seal drafts near plumbing lines
- Open cabinet doors under sinks to allow warm air circulation
Frozen pipes are one of the most common causes of major water damage during winter travel.
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Avoid Drain and Sewer Odors
Unused drains can dry out, allowing sewer gases to enter your home or building.
To prevent this:
- Run water in all sinks, tubs, and floor drains
- Pour a small amount of cooking oil into rarely used drains to slow evaporation
- Ensure grease traps and septic systems are recently serviced
These simple steps help maintain proper trap seals and keep unpleasant odors away.
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Schedule Preventative Plumbing Maintenance
Before leaving for an extended trip, it’s smart to schedule a professional plumbing inspection.
Routine maintenance services may include:
- Drain cleaning or hydro jetting
- Sewer camera inspections
- Leak detection checks
- Grease trap pumping
- Septic tank level inspection
Preventative maintenance can identify hidden issues before they become costly emergencies while you’re away.
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Install Smart Leak Detection Devices
Modern smart leak detectors can alert you instantly if water is detected where it shouldn’t be. Some systems even
automatically shut off your water supply to prevent flooding.
This technology provides peace of mind — especially for vacation homes, commercial properties, or seasonal businesses.
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Protect Outdoor Plumbing and Sewer Lines
Don’t forget exterior plumbing components. Before leaving:
- Disconnect garden hoses
- Shut off outdoor spigots
- Ensure sump pumps are operational
- Confirm sewer cleanouts are secure
- Trim tree roots near sewer lines if needed
Outdoor plumbing failures can cause hidden damage that worsens over time.
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Ask Someone to Check Your Property
If possible, have a trusted neighbor, employee, or property manager periodically check:
- Water leaks or pooling
- Unusual odors
- Slow drains or backups
- Changes in water pressure
- Sounds from pumps or plumbing fixtures
Early detection can prevent major repairs and downtime.
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Why Taking Preventative Steps Saves You Money
Protecting your plumbing system while away helps you:
- Avoid emergency repair costs
- Prevent property and structural damage
- Reduce mold remediation expenses
- Maintain business operations
- Extend the lifespan of pipes and sewer systems
- Lower insurance risks and claims
A little preparation before leaving can save thousands in unexpected plumbing and sewer repairs.
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Time To Relax...
Vacations and extended travel should be relaxing — not filled with worry about what might go wrong at your property. By taking proactive steps and scheduling preventative plumbing maintenance, you can leave with confidence knowing your system is protected.
Contact A&P Plumbing and Sewer for fast, reliable commercial emergency service—24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
