SUMMARY:
With many people traveling to visit family during the holidays, the end of the year can be a troublesome time for residential plumbing systems. While that fact is usually considered in terms of the systems of homes that are hosting additional guests and experiencing heavier use than normal, it is also ironically true that the plumbing in houses left empty by traveling homeowners can also suffer damage during this time. By following a few guidelines to prepare their homes for a week or more of not being lived in, homeowners can ensure that their plumbing systems remain in good order until they return.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
Families in the Charleston, SC area who plan to travel over the Christmas and New Year’s holidays are advised to take a few moments and prepare their plumbing systems before leaving. Plumbing is designed to be used on a frequent basis, and pipes, drains, and appliances that are left unused for a week or more can suffer damage–particularly if those systems are older or already compromised in some way.
Preventing the growth of mold and mildew is perhaps the highest priority related to plumbing while a homeowner is away on vacation. Dishwashers and laundry washers, as well as sinks and bathtubs, that have any water left standing in them may easily become ideal growth areas for mold and mildew, which are then very difficult to eradicate and cause serious health problems. Before leaving home, homeowners should check all appliances and drains, ensure that there is no standing water present, and check for any leaks that could bring additional moisture.
The older your water heater is, the more important it is to turn its heat setting down or off completely while you are out of the house. Any malfunction with the water heater will likely be undetected for several days, potentially leading to severe damage to the home. Turning off your water heater will also save money, as energy will not be used to heat water that no one is using.
The weeks and days preceding a family vacation are an ideal time to schedule a long-overdue inspection by a trusted plumber in Charleston, SC. Even if you are not aware of any pipe leaks underneath your lawn or clogged drains, they could be present and ready to cause a plumbing emergency while you are out of town. Having your system inspected and any issues addressed right away will give you peace of mind about the safety of your home.
Two final tips can ensure that your family is able to enjoy their holiday trip without worrying about the house’s plumbing and other systems. Leaving a key with a trusted neighbor and asking them to check in periodically is a great added layer of security. Finally, every homeowner has the option of turning off their main water valve before leaving home. With no water coming into the home at all, there is no chance of leaks, clogs, or malfunctioning appliances leading to flooding in the home.
Charleston, SC area residents can get in touch with Rooter-Man of SC at www.rootermansc.com for more plumbing advice and to schedule service provided by expert plumbers in Charleston.
