A white background with a few lines on it

🧳 How to Prepare Your Plumbing Before Leaving for Vacation

August 21, 2025

Protect your home from leaks, floods, and water waste while you’re away.

A woman is laying on her stomach on the beach wearing a straw hat.

Introduction


Heading out on vacation should be stress-free—but if you return to a plumbing disaster, that relaxing break can turn into a costly nightmare. Whether you're away for a weekend or a month, taking a few proactive steps can protect your plumbing, prevent water damage, and give you peace of mind while you’re gone.


This guide covers practical, preventative plumbing tasks every Cambridge homeowner should complete before leaving home.


1. Shut Off the Main Water Supply


This is the single most important step. Turning off your home’s main water valve eliminates the risk of a pipe bursting or a fixture leaking while you’re away.


  • Locate your main shutoff valve (usually near the water meter or where the main line enters your home).
  • Test it ahead of time to ensure it turns easily.
  • Once shut off, run your faucets for a few seconds to relieve water pressure in the pipes.


2. Drain Appliances That Use Water


After shutting off the main water supply, run appliances briefly to empty their lines:

  • Toilets: Flush once to clear the bowl and tank.
  • Washing machine & dishwasher: Run a quick rinse or drain cycle.
  • Fridge water line: Turn off the valve and empty the ice maker reservoir if applicable.


3. Inspect for Small Leaks or Drips


A slow leak may go unnoticed during daily life—but left for days, it can cause major damage.

  • Check under sinks, around toilets, and behind appliances.
  • Inspect supply lines to the dishwasher, washing machine, and fridge.
  • Tighten any loose fittings or schedule a quick fix before you leave.


4. Set Your Water Heater to Vacation Mode


If your home has a modern water heater, use the vacation or low setting to save energy. If your unit doesn’t have this feature and you’ve shut off the water, consider turning the heater off entirely.

This reduces gas or electricity usage and minimizes risk if something goes wrong.


5. Clear Your Drains


Clear slow drains before you leave to prevent odors or blockages from worsening:

  • Flush sinks with boiling water.
  • Use a vinegar and baking soda mix.
  • Avoid leaving food debris in the kitchen drain or disposal.


Bonus tip: Run your garbage disposal with cold water and lemon peels to leave it fresh-smelling.


6. Ask a Friend or Neighbor to Check In


If you’ll be gone for more than a few days, consider asking someone to:

  • Check your home every few days
  • Turn on faucets to keep traps full
  • Flush toilets to prevent dry seals and odors


Leave them with your plumber’s contact info in case anything happens.


7. Disconnect Outdoor Hoses


Even in summer, outdoor hoses can cause leaks or flooding if a spigot fails. Disconnect hoses and consider turning off the exterior shutoff valves to those lines.


Final Thoughts



With a little preparation, you can enjoy your vacation knowing your home’s plumbing is secure. Shutting off water, draining appliances, inspecting for leaks, and managing your water heater can all help you avoid returning to unwanted surprises.

A few simple steps now can prevent a flooded kitchen, mouldy basement, or a high water bill later.

< Older Post

 Newer Post >