Nobody wants to return from vacation to find a flooded house in need of new carpet and water pipe repair. When a pipe bursts while you’re away for an extended period of time, water damage becomes more likely, which is why it’s important to take precautions. Before your next trip, follow these leak-proofing steps to help ensure a dry house when you return to Hattiesburg, MS.
Perform a Visual Inspection
Before you leave, carefully inspect your home for water seepage. Some common sources of household leaks include the following:
• Windows
• Pipes
• Large appliances
Around windows, look for discoloration of surrounding surfaces and ensure the seals are in working order. In addition to searching for a broken pipe, inspect for rust and cracks, as these are signs of weakness in the metal. Inspect the hoses that connect major appliances, such as dishwashers and water heaters, to running water, ensuring there are no tears or kinks. Perform this inspection in advance to allow yourself time to make a water pipe repair or get help from a professional if necessary.
Guard Against the Elements
During cold months, leave your thermostat set on low to prevent water from freezing and bursting your pipes. Insulate those outdoors with foam or fiberglass sleeves that are sold in hardware stores. If you’ll be gone for a considerable amount of time, consider shutting off the water at the main and draining pipes if temperatures may reach freezing. Look into digital detection systems, which notify you of leaks and can even remotely shut off water.
Enlist Backup
If possible, arrange for someone to occasionally check on your house while you’re away. Show this person your house’s water shut-off valve and instruct him or her how to use the thermostat. Since water damage requires a hasty response, be sure the individual knows to immediately call a plumber or water damage repair expert at the first sign of trouble.
When in doubt, be proactive. After all, who wants to ruin a vacation by worrying about water pipe repair? By taking simple precautions against leakage, you can avoid concern about returning from vacation to a flooded home.
