Preventing Water Damage When You Are Away from Home

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The winter season often means holiday visits to friends and family. But, while you are gone, it is all to easy for things to go awry. Our winter tips will help prevent water damage in your home while you are enjoying some time away.

Check Water Supply Lines

The plastic or rubber hoses that go to your dishwasher, your washing machine, the icemaker in your refrigerator and other appliances should be in good shape, especially if you are getting ready to leave. Replace any that are cracked, bulging or that show any signs of corrosion. By ensuring that the lines are sound, you cut the chances of them breaking while you are away.

Consider Shutting Off Your Water at the Main Valve

Your main should be somewhere in your yard, your basement or near the road. Turning off the water here can prevent leaks while you are away by keeping water out of the pipes.

If you have never turned off the main water valve at your home before, test it before you go. After shutting off the valve, turn on a faucet in the house. The water should stop once the pipe is empty.

If you have someone coming over to water plants or to feed pets, you can also shut off the supply just at specific valves. The ones that feed appliances like your dishwasher and washing machine, as well as the one for your toilet, are good ones to stop to cut your chance of leaks.

Test Your Sump Pump

If you have a basement, ensure that the sump pump is working before you go. Pour a bucket of water down into the pump to raise the water level. Your pump should turn on to eject the excess water immediately. If it does not work, double check to see that it is plugged in. You should also check that the outlet pipe is free of clogs and is not frozen over. If the pump still is not working, consider having someone out to service it before you go.

Clean Your Gutters

When the gutters are clogged with fall leaves, they cannot do their job and move water away from your roof and house. When water pools in the gutters, it increases your chances of water getting into the home to cause damage.

Have a friend periodically check in.

Even if you don’t have pets or house plants, having someone take a look at your house every few days is beneficial. Someone who comes in to take in the mail and look around can catch a problem before it becomes a big one.

If, in spite of your preparations, you suffer water damage while you are gone, it is important to get it handled quickly. The longer water sits, the more damage it can cause. If you have flooding in your home, call us to get the water damage cleaning service Seattle trusts. We are available year round to ensure your home stays safe and dry.

Comments

  1. says

    That’s a good tip to shut off your water main when you are away. That way you won’t have to worry about water damage on vacation. I’m going on a cruise so I’ll have to try this during the summer.

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