Avoiding a Plumbing Disaster

Leaving for vacation during this time of year is supposed to include one of few things - relaxation, tranquility, and an escape from the realities of life. But the one thing that can haunt you if not taken care of prior, is home maintenance. 

As winter draws to a close, your plumbing is something worth taking a look at before you board that flight. Here are some things you can do to ensure your pipes are in good standing to be left alone.

• Shut off the water. Shutting the water off is a great place to start. In a colder climate, you may experience a day or two of colder than normal temperature. By shutting the water off, you’re restricting flow of it into your home, lowering the chances of your pipes freezing. To perform this effectively, shut the inline water valve off, and begin draining things like your faucets and showers, beginning at the top floor and working your way down.

• Drain your water heater. Draining your water heater is a smart way to prevent a nightmare as well. If there’s an exit point nearby, attach a hose to the drain valve, and allow the water to run out. Hey, this could be a great time to do a little maintenance on your water heater too!

• Weatherproof your pipes. If you’re expecting a colder climate during your trip, you might want to consider weatherproofing the pipes and traps as well. Windshield washer fluid is a great addition to these traps because they have such a low freezing point-- and it’s a cheap solution!

Abiding by these rules will undoubtedly leave your house in great standing for your trip. You can sip drinks on the beach or hang out by the slot machines knowing your plumbing has effectively been prepped for a week of non-use!

For any and all of your plumbing maintenance and repairs, turn to Nassau Plumbing and Sewer Rooter! And remember - we are here for your emergency needs 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Give us a call at 516.874.7937 or visit our website to learn more about our services.