How to Protect Your Plumbing Before Going on Vacation

A well-deserved vacation should be a time to relax—not worry about potential plumbing disasters back home. Unfortunately, even a small leak or clog can escalate into a major problem if left unchecked while you’re away. Taking a few simple precautions can protect your home, your plumbing, and your peace of mind.

At Hank & Sons Plumbing, we help Southern California homeowners keep their plumbing systems in top shape year-round. Before your next trip, follow these steps—or call Hank & Sons Plumbing at 909-524-2906 for professional help.

Why Preparing Your Plumbing Matters

An unattended plumbing issue can quickly turn into a serious and expensive problem. Burst pipes, slow leaks, or backed-up drains can lead to:

• Water damage to floors, walls, and furniture
• Mold growth from excess moisture
• Increased water bills
• Emergency repairs that disrupt your return home

Preventative steps are easy to implement and can save you from a major headache.

Essential Tips to Protect Your Plumbing Before Vacation

1. Turn Off the Main Water Supply

If you’re going to be away for more than a couple of days, shutting off your home’s main water valve is one of the best ways to prevent leaks and floods. No water flowing means no risk of burst pipes or slow, unnoticed leaks while you’re gone.

Not sure where your main shut-off valve is? Hank & Sons Plumbing can help locate it and make sure it’s in working condition.

2. Drain Water From Faucets and Fixtures

After shutting off the water supply, open your faucets and flush your toilets to drain any remaining water from the lines. This reduces pressure in the pipes and further minimizes the risk of leaks or water damage.

3. Inspect for Leaks Before You Leave

Take a few minutes to walk through your home and check under sinks, behind toilets, and around appliances like dishwashers and washing machines. Look for any signs of moisture, corrosion, or small drips. If you find anything suspicious, call Hank & Sons Plumbing for quick repairs before you go.

4. Check and Clear Drains

Clogged or slow drains can worsen over time. Before leaving, make sure your sinks, tubs, and showers drain properly. If necessary, clear minor clogs with a safe, non-corrosive drain cleaner—or schedule a professional drain cleaning with Hank & Sons Plumbing for extra peace of mind.

5. Set Your Water Heater to Vacation Mode

Many modern water heaters have a “vacation” setting designed to lower energy consumption while maintaining safe system pressure. If your unit doesn’t have a specific vacation mode, you can lower the thermostat to around 50°F to reduce energy use without turning the heater off entirely.

6. Ask a Friend or Neighbor to Check In

If you’re planning an extended trip, ask someone you trust to check on your home periodically. A quick walkthrough can catch any problems early and prevent small issues from becoming disasters.

7. Protect Outdoor Plumbing

If you’re traveling during colder months, don’t forget your outdoor faucets and sprinkler systems. Shut off and drain outdoor water lines to prevent freezing and bursting. Insulate exposed pipes if necessary.

Consider Professional Plumbing Help Before Long Trips

If you’re going on a long vacation or just want extra peace of mind, consider a pre-trip plumbing inspection. At Hank & Sons Plumbing, we offer comprehensive plumbing checks to ensure your system is in top shape before you leave, identifying any hidden issues that could cause problems while you’re away.

Travel With Confidence — Protect Your Plumbing Before You Go

Taking a few simple steps to secure your plumbing before vacation can help you avoid expensive water damage, emergency repairs, and ruined homecomings. Trust the experts at Hank & Sons Plumbing to help you prepare your home and enjoy worry-free travel.

Call Hank & Sons Plumbing today at 909-524-2906 to schedule a plumbing inspection or get help preparing your system for your next trip!