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Kitchen PlumbingBathroom PlumbingPlumbingApril 18, 2025
5 Plumbing Systems To Check Before Summer Vacation
Before heading out on your summer getaway, there's more to think about than just packing your bags and setting your out-of-office reply. One of the best ways to avoid coming home to a plumbing disaster is to take a few simple steps to make sure everything in your home is in good shape before you leave. With a quick check of your plumbing systems, you can help prevent leaks, water damage, and pricey repairs while you're away.
At Ace Hardware Home Services, we want to ensure you can enjoy your vacation and return to a stress-free home, so our experts have put together this guide. Make sure you inspect these five plumbing systems before locking the door and hitting the road!
Find expert plumbing services near you with Ace Hardware Home Services!
At Ace Hardware Home Services, we want to ensure you can enjoy your vacation and return to a stress-free home, so our experts have put together this guide. Make sure you inspect these five plumbing systems before locking the door and hitting the road!
1. Test Your Sump Pump
Summer storms can bring heavy rains that put your basement or crawl space at risk for flooding. If your home has a sump pump, make sure it’s working properly before you leave. To test your sump pump, pour a bucket of water into the sump pit. The pump should activate and remove the water right away. If it doesn’t turn on or seems to struggle, it’s a good idea to call in a professional to inspect or service it. A working sump pump can save your home from water damage while you’re out of town.2. Check the Water Heater
If you’ll be away for more than a few days, check your water heater to make sure it’s leak-free and running efficiently. Look for signs of water around the base, corrosion on the tank, or rust-colored water from the taps. If your water heater has a "vacation mode" setting, turning it on can save energy while you're away. For longer trips, you may also consider draining the tank or turning it off entirely, depending on the model. These small steps can help extend the life of your water heater and lower utility costs.3. Clean the Drains
Leaving your home with slow or clogged drains can lead to unpleasant odors and even overflow if pressure builds up. It’s a good idea to clear your drains before you leave, especially in bathrooms and the kitchen. Try flushing your drains with hot water and a mixture of baking soda and vinegar. For tougher clogs, a drain snake or plunger can help dislodge buildup. Avoid chemical drain cleaners — they can damage pipes and may not be effective in the long run. For tougher clogs that won’t clear with DIY methods, reach out to our team for professional drain cleaning services. Clean drains keep your plumbing system healthy and prevent issues while you’re gone.4. Inspect Your Toilets
A toilet that runs constantly or leaks slowly might not seem urgent — but if left unattended for days or weeks, it can waste a significant amount of water and even cause damage. Check each toilet for signs of wear, leaks at the base, or the sound of running water. If you notice anything unusual, it’s better to address it now rather than risk coming home to higher water bills or a flooded bathroom. A quick inspection and repair can make all the difference.5. Check for Leaks
A final walk-through of your home can help you spot small leaks before they become big problems. Look under sinks, behind appliances, and around exposed pipes for any signs of moisture, rust, or water stains. If you find a leak, shut off the water to that fixture and schedule leak repair services before you leave. Even a slow drip can waste tons of gallons of water over time and cause unseen damage.Call Ace Hardware Home Services for Plumbing Help
If you discover anything that doesn’t look quite right — or if you just want peace of mind before you head out — the team at Ace Hardware Home Services is here for you. Our licensed professionals offer upfront pricing, convenient scheduling, and reliable plumbing services to help keep your home safe while you’re away. From leak repairs to sump pump inspections, our team will help you get vacation-ready with confidence.Find expert plumbing services near you with Ace Hardware Home Services!
