Should You Turn Off Water When On Vacation

Should You Turn Off Your Water When You Go on Vacation? A Comprehensive Guide

Going on vacation is exciting! Packing your bags, anticipating new experiences, and leaving the daily grind behind are all part of the fun. But before you jet off to paradise, there's one crucial aspect of home preparation that often gets overlooked: your water supply. Should you turn off your water when you go on vacation? The answer, while seemingly simple, deserves a more in-depth exploration. This comprehensive guide will delve into the various factors to consider, helping you make the best decision for your home and peace of mind.

The Case for Turning Off Your Water

The primary reason to turn off your water supply before a vacation, especially a long one, is to prevent potential water damage. This seemingly simple act can save you from a significant headache, and potentially a hefty repair bill. Consider these scenarios:

1. Pipe Leaks and Burst Pipes:

• The Risk: Even the smallest leak can cause substantial damage over time. While you're away, a slow drip can accumulate into gallons of water, leading to soaked floors, damaged walls, and mold growth. A burst pipe, often caused by freezing temperatures or existing pipe weaknesses, can cause catastrophic flooding.
• The Prevention: Turning off the main water supply eliminates the possibility of water damage from leaks. If a pipe does burst, the damage will be minimal, confined to the area between the shut-off valve and the plumbing fixture.

2. Water Heater Issues:

• The Risk: Water heaters can malfunction, leading to leaks or even explosions in extreme cases. While less frequent than pipe leaks, the consequences can be far more devastating.
• The Prevention: Turning off the water supply to your water heater prevents the spread of water damage should a problem arise. Note that you may need to turn off the power to the water heater as well for complete safety.

3. Appliance Malfunctions:

• The Risk: Washing machines, dishwashers, and ice makers can all malfunction, causing leaks that go unnoticed while you're away.
• The Prevention: While not eliminating the risk entirely, turning off the water supply to these appliances significantly reduces the potential for water damage.

4. Unexpected Events:

• The Risk: Severe weather events, such as storms or power outages, can impact your water supply, potentially leading to leaks or bursts in vulnerable pipes.
• The Prevention: Turning off your water supply provides an extra layer of protection against unforeseen circumstances.

The Case Against Turning Off Your Water

While the benefits of turning off your water are compelling, there are some situations where it might not be the best option:

1. Inconvenience:

• The Drawback: Turning off the water requires effort and potentially some knowledge of your home's plumbing system. Restoring the water supply after your return can also be inconvenient.
• Mitigation: Familiarise yourself with your water shutoff valve's location before leaving. Consider leaving a note for your house sitter with instructions if needed.

2. Potential for Water Damage During the Shut-Off Process:

• The Drawback: Improperly turning off the main water supply can, in rare instances, cause minor leaks.
• Mitigation: If unsure, consult a plumber. Take your time and ensure the valve is securely turned off.

3. Maintaining Water Pressure in Certain Systems:

• The Drawback: Turning off the main water supply can affect the pressure in certain systems, such as well water systems or sprinkler systems.
• Mitigation: Understand your plumbing system and consider the implications for specific systems before shutting off the main supply. It may be sufficient to shut off water supply to the specific appliance only.

4. Keeping Plumbing Fixtures in Working Condition:

• The Drawback: Some believe that leaving a little water running in the pipes prevents them from drying out and potentially cracking, especially in older homes. However, there’s limited evidence to support this.
• Mitigation: If concerned about older plumbing, consider having your pipes inspected by a professional. Turning off only the main supply is safer than leaving water running and risking significant damage.

A Balanced Approach: Consider These Factors

The decision of whether or not to turn off your water should be based on a careful assessment of several factors:

• Trip Length: For shorter trips, the risk of significant water damage might be lower. However, even a short trip could have disastrous consequences. The safest choice remains to shut off the water.
• Age and Condition of Your Plumbing: Older homes with outdated plumbing systems are at a higher risk of leaks and burst pipes. Turning off the water is highly recommended in such cases.
• Climate: In areas prone to freezing temperatures, turning off the water supply is crucial to prevent pipes from bursting.
• Home Security: Consider whether you have a house sitter or neighbour checking in on your property. Even with a house sitter, it's wise to turn off the water.
• Appliances: The presence of older appliances increases the risk of leaks and should make turning off the water supply a priority.

Step-by-Step Guide to Turning Off Your Water Supply

If you decide to turn off your water supply, follow these steps:

1. Locate Your Main Water Shutoff Valve: This is typically located near the water meter, often in the basement, garage, or outside near the street.
2. Gather Necessary Tools: You might need a wrench or pliers to turn the valve.
3. Turn Off the Water Supply: Slowly and carefully turn the valve clockwise until the water flow stops. This might take a few minutes.
4. Check for Leaks: After turning off the valve, check all faucets and appliances to ensure the water is completely off.
5. Turn Off Water Heaters: Turn off the power to your water heater as well.
6. Consider individual appliance shut-off valves: If you have individual shutoff valves for appliances like washing machines or toilets, you may choose to shut off only those instead of the main valve. However, this won't protect against pipe burst from the main line.

Restoring Your Water Supply Upon Your Return

When you return from vacation, reverse the process:

1. Slowly Turn On the Main Water Shutoff Valve: Turn the valve counterclockwise to restore the water supply. This might take a few minutes.
2. Check for Leaks: Carefully check all faucets, appliances, and pipes for any signs of leaks.
3. Check your Water Heater: Ensure the water heater is functioning correctly, and check for leaks around it.

Conclusion: Peace of Mind is Priceless

While turning off your water before a vacation might seem like an extra step, it’s a small effort that can provide significant peace of mind and prevent potentially costly water damage. Weigh the factors discussed in this guide, and make an informed decision that best protects your home and your investment. When in doubt, err on the side of caution and turn off the water – the potential savings far outweigh the minor inconvenience. Remember, a worry-free vacation is a much better vacation!