Going on Vacation? Here’s a Plumbing Checklist Before You Leave

1. Inspect for Leaks Before You Leave

Do a quick walk-through of your entire home. Check under sinks, around toilets, near your dishwasher, washing machine, and around the base of your water heater. Look for any puddles, moisture, rust stains, or even the faint sound of dripping.

Even a small, slow leak can cause major damage if it’s left running for days. If you find anything suspicious, it’s always worth calling in a pro before you go.

2. Check Outdoor Faucets and Hoses

Outdoor plumbing often gets overlooked, but it’s just as important, especially in the summer when hoses and sprinklers are in use. Turn off all outdoor faucets and disconnect any hoses. A slow leak or worn-out hose bib can lead to water pooling near your foundation, which may cause damage or attract pests while you’re away.

If you have an irrigation system, double-check that it’s set properly and that there are no broken sprinkler heads wasting water or soaking areas too close to your home.

3. Clear Drains and Garbage Disposals

Before you leave, flush out your kitchen and bathroom drains with hot water and a mix of baking soda and vinegar. This can help prevent any odors from building up while you're gone.

Also, run your garbage disposal with cold water and a few ice cubes (or citrus peels if you want to freshen things up). It’s a small step that makes a big difference. No one wants to come home to a mystery smell!

4. Ask a Neighbor or Friend to Check In

Even if everything looks good when you leave, it’s always a good idea to have someone you trust stop by to make sure nothing unexpected has popped up. Let them know where your water shut-off is and how to reach you if anything seems off. Bonus: It also enhances security, mail collection, and provides peace of mind while you're relaxing somewhere sunny.

Enjoy Your Vacation, We’ve Got the Rest Covered

A few simple steps before you leave can make all the difference when it comes to avoiding a post-vacation plumbing surprise. If anything seems off while you’re checking your home, don’t wait, give us a call, and we’ll take care of it before you leave.

Safe travels from all of us at Jason Mazzer Plumbing and Heating, and remember, we’re always here when you need us.