No matter what your summertime plans are, make sure your home’s plumbing is up to code. If you don’t, you leave your home and wallet at the mercy of any plumbing accidents that occur. Here are some ways you can reduce the chances of plumbing accidents happening. These suggestions can also make it easier for you to resolve any plumbing issues that do occur.
Dial Down the Thermostat
If you plan to go on vacation or spend a few days away from home, make sure you turn down the thermostat on your water heater. Turn it to the lowest setting because there is no reason for it to waste energy and heat water while you’re gone. However, if you plan to have someone house sit, just turn it down a few degrees so they won’t be inconvenienced or stuck with cold water.
Turn the Water Off
Small drips make big leaks at some point. You should turn the water off to your home if you are going to be away for more than three days. You don’t need to contact your water company to do it. All you need to do is shut the water off with the main water valve. You should also shut the water off to the outside of your home too. You can always ask your neighbors or a close friend to water your garden while you’re gone.
Check the Sump
If your home has a sump pump, you should be checking it every few months to ensure that it is working properly. Pour some water down into the sump field. If the water flows back out right away, your pump is in good condition. But, if the water sits for a bit before draining, there may be some issues you should have your plumber address before you leave. You may feel like taking your chances with a slow draining sump pump. However, not all plumbing accidents originate inside of the home. Some of them, like sewer backups start on the outside but can lead to major water damage inside.
Inspect Your Water Appliances
You should visually inspect and smell your water appliances for odors. Musty smells can indicate blockages and moisture issues that you may want to address before you go anywhere for the season. Run your garbage disposal to clear food and waste residue from your sinks. Make sure your dishwasher, fridge, water heater and other water appliances have clear drains. Do not leave any waste or moisture issues unchecked because you could end up with bigger problems, such as pest infestations and major plumbing problems.
Get a Sewer Inspection
Sewers problems often occur during the summer because of rain and thunderstorms. There are times when excessive rains can overflow the sewer systems causing backups into your home. You should have your home’s sewer system inspected to ensure there are no blockages for you to worry about while you are gone.
Plumbing Accidents Are Avoidable
Because plumbing accidents can happen at any time, you should consider having someone keep an eye on your home. They do not need to stay in it while you are away, but they should go inside of it to check things out every few days. That way, if any plumbing accidents that happen can be discovered and resolved quickly.
The best defense against summertime plumbing accidents is preventative maintenance and regular plumbing inspections. To learn more about how you and your home can benefit from them or to schedule service, feel free to contact us at Steve Mull Plumbing. You can count on us for a fast and efficient response to keep your plumbing in great shape.
