How do we manage our plumbing when we are away for a long time?

December 23rd, 2021

The vacation season is approaching and you may be planning to leave your home for a longer period of time. It is normal to wonder how to prepare your home for this absence, especially when it comes to plumbing. Indeed, how do we manage our plumbing during a prolonged absence? This is the question that the following blog post will attempt to answer.

Water damage, a frequent cause of claims

Water damage is one of the main causes of home insurance claims. The causes can be multiple, such as a sewer backup, the failure of a drainage pump, freezing and thawing which can cause a rupture of the pipes. This type of damage can be very expensive and when we are away for a long period of time, we are obviously less reactive to stop the problem. Fortunately, there are many measures that can be taken to avoid major problems and protect your home from water damage. It is even more important to take this into account during the winter, since cold temperatures combined with stagnant water in the pipes can cause major breakage.

To avoid problems

A good idea when you leave your home for an extended period of time is to turn off the water supply and drain the internal pipes of your home. This is something you should do whether you are closing your cottage or leaving your home for a vacation. This simple precaution can prevent water from freezing inside the pipes and causing them to burst. This is even more important if you plan to turn down the heat while you are away to save electricity. Even if you don’t turn down the heat, you are not immune to power outages on a particularly cold day. Turning off the water is a matter of locating and closing the main water supply shut-off valve. This valve is usually located in the basement probably on the wall facing the street. Once you have shut off the water supply, it is important to open the faucets to let the residual water drain out. Start with the basement and end with the highest floor. Don’t forget to flush all toilets. You can hold the flush until the tank is empty. You can also pour some plumbing antifreeze down the drain to prevent the remaining water from freezing in case you completely close a cottage for the winter, for example. Also, empty all appliances that use water.

Actions to take outside as well

You should also take care of the outdoors and turn off outdoor faucets. Disconnect the garden hose and drain it. When the water stops flowing, turn off the faucet. If you have multiple outdoor water sources in your home, you might have to repeat these steps wherever necessary. Outdoor plumbing is particularly exposed to cold and should not be neglected.

If in doubt, do not hesitate to contact a plumber. Every home is unique. Depending on the plumbing configuration, draining your indoor and outdoor pipes may require the expertise of a professional. This way, you can leave with peace of mind.