Few things ruin a relaxing vacation faster than coming home to a plumbing disaster. Imagine walking through your front door after a week in Maui only to discover a burst pipe, a flooded kitchen, or the unmistakable odor of a sewer backup. Unfortunately, plumbing issues don’t take vacations. In fact, leaving your home unoccupied for days or weeks can increase the risk of hidden leaks, clogs, or failures turning into major problems.
For Orange County homeowners, where many houses feature high-end fixtures, beautiful landscaping, and complex irrigation systems, it’s especially important to take precautions before packing your bags. A little planning goes a long way toward protecting your home while you’re away. Here’s a comprehensive guide on how to prep your plumbing system and avoid costly surprises when you return.
1. Inspect for Leaks Before You Leave
Even a slow drip can waste gallons of water each day, drive up your utility bill, and cause long-term damage if left unchecked. Before your trip:
- Check under sinks and around toilets for any signs of moisture.
- Inspect supply lines connected to appliances like dishwashers, washing machines, and refrigerators.
- Look for stains on ceilings or walls, which may signal hidden leaks.
If you spot anything suspicious, schedule a quick repair before your departure. VIP Sewer and Drain can help identify and fix small issues before they become emergencies.
2. Shut Off the Main Water Supply (If Possible)
One of the most effective ways to prevent plumbing disasters while away is simply shutting off your home’s main water valve. Doing so ensures that even if a pipe bursts or a fitting fails, water won’t pour into your home.
- Locate your main shutoff valve, usually near the water meter, garage, or outside along the foundation.
- After turning it off, run a faucet briefly to relieve pressure in the pipes.
- For added safety, consider turning off your water heater or setting it to “vacation mode” to conserve energy.
If you need your irrigation system or pool equipment to stay active while you’re gone, you can shut off individual supply lines instead of the main.
3. Drain and Protect Outdoor Faucets & Hoses
Outdoor plumbing is especially vulnerable to leaks and damage. Even in Orange County’s mild climate, wear and tear on hoses and spigots can lead to wasted water.
- Disconnect garden hoses.
- Ensure outdoor faucets are tightly closed.
- Check irrigation timers and sprinkler heads for proper function.
This small step helps you avoid returning to unexpected puddles or sky-high water bills.
4. Clean Drains and Garbage Disposal
A clogged or dirty drain left unattended can create odors that greet you at the door when you return. To prevent this:
- Run hot water down kitchen and bathroom drains to flush them.
- Drop a few ice cubes and some vinegar into the garbage disposal and run it to clear residue and freshen the unit.
- Consider using a safe enzymatic drain cleaner to discourage buildup.
For stubborn slow drains, have a professional inspection before your trip. VIP Sewer and Drain offers hydro jetting and camera inspections to identify issues and thoroughly clean lines, clearing drains and preventing future blockages.
5. Test Your Sump Pump (If You Have One)
While not all Orange County homes have sump pumps, those that do rely on them to protect against flooding in basements or crawlspaces. Before leaving:
- Pour a bucket of water into the sump pit to ensure the pump activates.
- Check that the discharge line directs water away from your foundation.
- Confirm the pump has a backup power source in case of an a a outage.
A quick test now could save you from major water damage later.
6. Give Toilets and Fixtures a Check-Up
Unused toilets and sinks can develop stagnant water and unpleasant smells. To avoid this:
- Flush all toilets and pour a half-cup of chlorine bleach into the bowl to help keep it fresh.
- Run water in sinks and tubs to fill the traps, which prevents sewer gas from seeping into your home.
- If you’ll be away for an extended time, ask a friend or neighbor to stop by and run the fixtures once or twice.
7. Address Sewer Line Concerns
A sewer backup is one of the worst surprises you can come home to—and one of the most preventable. If you’ve noticed recurring slow drains, gurgling noises, or unpleasant odors, don’t ignore them before vacation. These are often early signs of a blockage in the main sewer line.
VIP Sewer and Drain specializes in sewer camera inspections and trenchless repair. A quick check before you leave can ensure your main line is clear and reduce the risk of backups while you’re away.
8. Consider a Smart Leak Detection System
For extra peace of mind, many Orange County homeowners are installing smart water monitoring systems. These devices connect to your Wi-Fi and alert you via smartphone if unusual water usage or leaks are detected. Some models even allow you to shut off the main supply remotely.
It’s a worthwhile investment, especially for frequent travelers.
9. Ask for a House Check
Even with all precautions, it’s smart to have someone you trust check on your home while you’re away. A quick walkthrough every few days can catch small issues before they escalate. Provide your contact information and that of a reliable plumber like VIP Sewer and Drain in case immediate help is needed.
10. Schedule Preventive Maintenance with VIP Sewer and Drain
Finally, the best way to ensure worry-free travel is with professional preventive care. Our team offers:
- Drain cleaning to remove buildup before it becomes a clog.
- Sewer camera inspections to detect root intrusion or cracks.
- Water heater maintenance to extend equipment life and reduce risk.
With decades of experience serving Orange County homeowners, VIP Sewer and Drain is your local partner for reliable, trustworthy plumbing service.
Vacation is a time to unwind—not to stress over what might be happening at home. By taking these proactive steps, you can safeguard your property, save money, and ensure a smooth return.
Before you zip up your suitcase, give your plumbing system a little attention. And if you need expert help preparing your home, call VIP Sewer and Drain Services. We’ll make sure your house stays as peaceful as your getaway.