Heading out on vacation or a business trip is always exciting, but while you’re busy planning flights, accommodations, and activities, one important detail is often overlooked: your home’s plumbing. Many homeowners assume everything will be fine while they’re away, only to return to unexpected leaks, foul odors, or costly water damage. Preparing your plumbing before traveling is just as crucial as locking your doors or setting your thermostat. Here’s why it matters and what you can do to safeguard your home. Remember, Mr. Rooter Plumbing of New Jersey is the company to call when you need a skilled plumber in Oakhurst.
1. Prevent Costly Water Damage
Water damage is one of the most expensive problems a homeowner can face, and it doesn’t take long for a small leak to escalate into a major disaster. A dripping faucet, a running toilet, or a hidden pipe leak can waste hundreds of gallons of water in just a few days. Worse yet, if a pipe bursts while you’re gone, your home could flood before anyone notices. By shutting off the main water supply or at least turning off the water to major appliances, you can minimize the risk of coming home to a soggy mess.
2. Avoid Unpleasant Odors
When drains aren’t used for an extended period, the water in the P-traps can evaporate. This water barrier normally blocks sewer gases from entering your home. Without it, unpleasant odors can seep in, leaving your house smelling foul upon your return. To prevent this, pour a small amount of mineral oil or simply run water through each drain before leaving. This step helps keep your plumbing sealed and odor-free.
3. Protect Against Frozen Pipes in Winter
If you’re traveling during the colder months, frozen pipes are a real concern. When water inside pipes freezes, it expands and can cause the pipe to burst. This is especially risky if your home’s heat is turned down too low or if pipes are exposed to drafts. Preparing ahead by insulating exposed pipes, keeping your home at a safe temperature, and shutting off the water can help prevent a disaster.
4. Save Money on Utility Bills
Even if nothing goes wrong, leaving your plumbing systems running while you’re away wastes money. Toilets, faucets, water heaters, and other fixtures can slowly consume water and energy when no one is around to use them. For example, leaving your water heater running can increase energy bills. Switching it to “vacation mode” or turning it off entirely is a simple way to cut costs while ensuring your home is more efficient.
5. Prevent Appliance Malfunctions
Appliances like dishwashers, washing machines, and ice makers can malfunction or spring leaks, even when not in use. A small hose or valve failure can leak gallons of water and go unnoticed for days. Disconnecting these appliances from their water supply or shutting off their valves before you leave adds another layer of protection against unexpected water damage.
6. Gain Peace of Mind While Away
Perhaps the most valuable reason to prepare your plumbing is peace of mind. Vacations are meant to be relaxing, and business trips are stressful enough without worrying about what’s happening at home. Taking proactive steps and working with a trusted plumber in Oakhurst ensures that your property is safe, your bills remain manageable, and you won’t return to unexpected emergencies.
Contact Mr. Rooter Plumbing of New Jersey For Professional Plumbing Service
Do you need plumbing help in your property? If so, look no further than Mr. Rooter Plumbing of New Jersey. Perhaps you’ve noticed a water leak in your home and need quick repairs before a lot of water goes to waste, or maybe you need professional help with winterizing your piping. Whatever your plumbing needs are, the specialists at Mr. Rooter Plumbing of New Jersey are here to help. Our team takes pride in offering drain cleaning, pipe repair, garbage disposal repair, sewer repair, water leak detection, and many more. Reach out now to book an appointment with our plumbers in Oakhurst.
