How to Prepare Your Plumbing Before Going on Vacation

Leaving home for a few days or a few weeks feels exciting…until you come back to a flooded bathroom or a burst pipe. The good news? A little preparation before you leave can save you from a serious headache when you return. Whether you’re heading out for a long weekend or an extended trip, these steps will help you leave with peace of mind. And if anything looks off before you go, calling a trusted plumber in New Port Richey, FL is always a smart move.

Shut Off the Main Water Supply

The single most effective thing you can do before leaving is turn off the main water supply to your home. No water pressure greatly reduces the risk of leaks developing while you’re away. Locate your main shut-off valve, which is typically found near the water meter, in a utility room, or along an exterior wall, and turn it clockwise until it stops.

If you’re unsure where it is, before leaving is the time to find out.

Check for Leaks

A small drip under the sink or a slow-running toilet might seem easy to ignore on a busy day. Before a trip, though, those slow leaks can turn into bigger problems over days or weeks of no one being home. Walk through your home and check:

• Under all sinks for moisture or staining
• Around the base of toilets
• Near the water heater for pooling or rust
• Along exposed pipes in the basement or garage

Mind Your Drains

In Florida’s humid environment, clogged or slow‑moving drains can become a bigger problem while you’re away. Debris and buildup can harden over days or weeks, raising the chance of backups or overflow when you return. Before shutting off the main water, run sinks, showers, and tubs briefly to make sure drains are clear and not sluggish. If any drain seems blocked or slow, consider scheduling a professional drain cleaning before your trip to avoid surprises. 

Set Your Water Heater to Vacation Mode

Most modern water heaters have a “vacation” or “pilot” setting. Using it reduces energy use without fully shutting the unit down, so you’re not heating water nobody’s using. Check your unit’s manual or the label on the tank for guidance.

Don’t Forget the Washing Machine Hose

Washing machine hoses are a common but often overlooked source of leaks. The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) notes that washing machine failures are among the leading causes of residential water damage. Before you leave, turn off the supply valves behind the machine or arrange plumbing services so professionals can inspect and replace aging hoses proactively.

Most Asked Questions

Can I leave my water heater completely off while I’m away?

Yes, but it depends on the type. Gas heaters should be set to pilot mode rather than fully off. Electric heaters can be switched off at the breaker.

What if I have a sprinkler system?

Put it on a timer or pause it if rain is expected. Leaving it running unnecessarily wastes water and can mask leaks.

Should someone check my home while I’m gone?

Absolutely. Have a trusted neighbor or house sitter walk through every few days. They don’t need plumbing knowledge, just eyes and a phone to call a plumbing company.

Leave Worry at the Door

Before your next trip, let a licensed, full-service plumbing contractor handle the inspection for you. Farrell Plumbing offers both residential and commercial plumbing services, so whether you own a home or a business property, we’ve got you covered. Don’t leave without being sure. Call us today to schedule a pre-vacation plumbing check, because coming home should feel like a relief, not a surprise.