5 Important Plumbing To-Dos Before Going on Vacation

May 22, 2024

Getting ready for a vacation is such an exciting time!  But before you jet off, there are a few things you'll want to take care of at home, especially when it comes to your plumbing. Trust us, a little prep now can save you a ton of headaches later. Here are five must-do plumbing tasks before you hit the road.


Turn Off Your Main Water Supply

One of the most critical steps in pre-vacation plumbing preparation is to turn off your main water supply. This simple task can prevent catastrophic water damage in the event of a burst pipe or plumbing leak while you're away. By shutting off the main valve, you effectively cut off the water supply to your entire home, minimizing the risk of flooding and water-related issues.


How to Turn Off Your Water Valve

Locating your main water valve is the first step. Typically, it's located near your water meter or where the main water line enters your home. Turn the valve clockwise to shut off the water flow. If you're unsure or uncomfortable with this task, consider enlisting the help of a professional plumber.



Hand and valve

Inspect for Leaks and Clogs

Before departing, take the time to inspect your plumbing fixtures, pipes, and appliances for any signs of leaks or clogs. Addressing these issues beforehand can prevent them from escalating into more significant problems while you're away. Check under sinks, around toilets, and in the basement for any signs of moisture or water damage.


Your Sump Pump Inspection Guide

If your home is equipped with a sump pump, ensure it's in proper working condition before leaving. Test the pump by pouring water into the sump pit and verifying that it activates and pumps the water away from your home's foundation. Additionally, ensure the discharge pipe is clear of debris and directed away from your house. Visit our sump pump page for more information.


Empty and Turn Off Appliances (Water Heaters and Sprinkler Systems)

Emptying and turning off water-using appliances like water heaters and sprinkler systems can help prevent malfunctions and conserve energy while you're away. Drain your water heater to prevent the buildup of sediment and reduce the risk of leaks. Similarly, shut off and drain your outdoor sprinkler system to avoid unnecessary water consumption and potential damage caused by fluctuating temperatures.


Set Up a Smart Home Water Shutoff Valve

Investing in a smart home water shutoff valve can provide added protection and peace of mind while you're on vacation. These innovative devices can detect leaks and automatically shut off the water supply, helping to mitigate damage even if you're not home to intervene manually.


If the worst happens and you have a leak, a smart home water shutoff valve will alert you via phone for an automatic shut-off and Plumb Works will help assist while you’re away. Our #1 recommended smart home water shutoff valve is the
Moen Flo Smart Water Shutoff, if you’re located in metro Atlanta and would like an installation, give us a call at 404-524-1825!


For the ultimate peace of mind, consider installing one of these systems for an additional layer of security


Arrange for Professional Monitoring

If you're still concerned about potential plumbing issues occurring while you're away, consider arranging for professional monitoring services. Many plumbing companies offer remote monitoring solutions that can detect leaks, monitor water usage, and alert you or a designated contact in the event of an emergency.


Call Plumb Works for Any Pre-Vacation Plumbing Concerns

Before going on your vacation, it's essential to address any lingering plumbing concerns or maintenance tasks. Whether you need assistance locating your main water valve, inspecting for leaks, or installing a smart home water shutoff valve, the experts at Plumb Works are here to help. Our team of experienced plumbers can ensure your plumbing system is in top condition before you leave, providing you with peace of mind during your travels.


By taking these proactive steps to safeguard your plumbing system before going on vacation, you can enjoy your time away with confidence, knowing that your home is protected against potential water-related disasters. Don't wait until it's too late—start preparing today for a stress-free vacation tomorrow!


Don't let plumbing issues ruin your vacation.
Contact Plumb Works today to schedule a pre-vacation plumbing inspection and ensure a worry-free getaway.

storm drain
March 23, 2026
Being proactive remains a key element of a successful business, and it certainly holds true when preparing for the possible devastating effects of stormy season. Spring remains one of the Atlanta area’s rainiest times of the year. According to Weather Spark, the average monthly rainfall from March through May ranges from 3 to 4.6 inches. Heavy spring storms can rain hard on a commercial facility. If unprepared, it can potentially lead to serious problems, causing everything from business downtime to costly repercussions. The following are several heavy rain-related issues that can cast a dark cloud on a commercial building and how to avoid them. Sump Pump: Fighting the Flood When it comes to flooding, stormwater remains a dreaded culprit. Having a properly functioning sump pump can help proactively help fight a flood. A sump pump collects groundwater from around a building’s foundation and pumps it away from the structure, deterring damage. Plumb Works suggests all businesses have one, especially those with a crawlspace or basement. Consult the experts at Plumb Works for sump pump installation, replacement, and preventative maintenance. Protection from Sewer Backups Heavy rains can overload a city’s sewer system. Backwater valves, a specific type of backflow prevention device, protect businesses from sewer backups by allowing wastewater out, but automatically closing to keep sewage from flowing backward. Plumb Works can install, test, and make sure your backwater valve is working properly. The Importance of Storm Drains Commercial storm drains are equipped to drain excess rain and groundwater from the areas surrounding a business, such as parking lots and sidewalks, preventing flooding, damages, and unsafe conditions. Some storm drain systems include a catch basin, which captures stormwater and separates any debris that may have come along with it. Having Plumb Works inspect, clean, and repair storm drains and catch basins can help businesses avoid a flood of unwanted costs. Cutting Out Grease Commercial kitchens require a grease trap, which keeps the plumbing system from being impacted by an overload of grease. If a grease trap isn’t functioning properly, it can have an adverse effect on a plumbing system during heavy rain. Too much grease limits pipe capacity, which can cause heavy rain to overwhelm a system, leading to backups. To avoid this, consult a plumbing professional company like Plumb Works that specializes in grease trap services. Avoiding Clogged Drains Plumbing systems in commercial facilities often fall prey to clogged pipes due to unwanted items being flushed or disposed of down drains. This can further complicate things when a mass amount of rain overwhelms a plumbing system. Businesses experiencing frequent clogs can benefit from hydro jetting. The most effective drain-cleaning solution available, hydro jetting uses high-pressure water jets to blast through clogged drains and restore peak plumbing performance. Schedule hydro jetting in advance of the rainy season to make sure pipes are functioning at their best under any possible pressure. Plumb Works Can Help Protect Your Business During Rainy Season Don’t let your business get washed away due to flooding and sewer backup challenges during the rainy season. Lean on a Plumb Works expert by calling 404-524-1825 or scheduling an appointment online.
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