Spring is almost here! Most schools are going on break and it’s the perfect time for bonding with your family. A vacation requires preparation, including picking your travel dates, reserving your accommodations and looking for activities that you and your family will enjoy. Moreover, it also involves readying your home for your absence.
Heloise, a lifestyle columnist from the Amarillo Globe News, shares some ideas you should consider to safeguard your home from messy water damage, and to potentially reduce your utility expenses:
Shut off the main water supply valve.
Shutting off your home’s main valve is the most essential protection against unwanted water damage. Test the valve by turning on a faucet and shutting off the main water supply valve. If water leaks and it doesn’t shut off all the way, call your local Austin plumbing professional to replace the valve and to turn it off for you.
Check your water supply lines.
Keep your eye on your washing machine, dishwasher, toilet, and other appliances that have supply lines made from rubber or plastic hoses. These materials can become brittle, leaky and weak as they age. If you find any leaks, cracks, bulges, or any signs of corrosion, replace them immediately with sturdier components, such as ones covered with braided stainless steel.
Probe the conditions of your plumbing fixtures.
Examine your faucets carefully to make sure that there are no leaks. Feel the valves underneath them if they’re moist or dripping wet. Consult with companies that concentrate on plumbing in Austin to get leaks, cracks, ruptures and other signs of wear and tear fixed before you even step out of your home.
Test your sump pump.
Fill the sump pit with water to make sure that it continually pumps and ejects groundwater out of your basement. Ensure that the outlet pipe isn’t frozen or clogged. Don’t forget to clean the hole in the discharge line and see if the motor is running smoothly.
Putting all things together at home can greatly help you in enjoying your vacation and in relaxing under the bright, sunny weather. By laying the groundwork, you not only get peace of mind and security, but also feel more recharged and at rest. After all, who wants to ruin their vacation by having to deal with a leaking home?
(Source: Don’t let water damage to house ruin a vacation, Amarillo Globe News, 28 March 2014)
