Why Everyone Should Know Where the Main Water Valve Is
As Ohio residents prepare to escape for the summer to the warm beaches of Florida, it’s crucial to secure the home’s plumbing. Preventive steps like scheduling a heater check-up before the cold season and turning off the main water valve before a prolonged absence can avoid plumbing emergencies. In this article, plumbing experts share some steps homeowners should take to avoid mishaps on vacation.
Preparing the Plumbing for a Long Absence
Ensuring the plumbing system is travel-ready involves several important steps. This proactive approach helps prevent the nightmare of returning to a flooded home.
- Locate the Main Water Valve: The main water valve is typically found in the basement, near the water meter, or where the main water line enters the house. Knowing its location is the first step in preventing water damage.
- Shut Off the Main Water Valve: Turning off the main valve stops the house’s water supply. This is a crucial step to avoid potential water damage if a pipe bursts when no one is home.
- Drain the Plumbing System: If travel plans coincide with winter, there’s another step to protect homes from freezing temperatures. After shutting off the main valve, open all faucets and flush toilets to drain water from the pipes. This process reduces the risk of water freezing in the pipes and causing them to burst.
Check & Monitor the Water Heater
Another big appliance to check before leaving home is the water heater. For homeowners with a traditional tanked unit, not only can energy costs rise because the system heats water even when no one is home, but a small leak can also cause the tank to burst, pouring gallons of water into the home.
At a minimum, homeowners should always turn off the power to their water heater. This is as simple as switching the breaker that powers the unit. As an extra step of protection, be sure to inspect the tank, and if there are any signs of leaks, contact a plumber before heading out.
Professional Plumbing Services for the Main Water Valve
Hiring professional plumbers to inspect and prepare the plumbing system can provide additional peace of mind. Professionals can ensure the main water valve functions correctly, drain the water heater, and offer additional services like pipe insulation. Hiring a professional service can guarantee that all necessary steps are taken to protect the home’s plumbing during winter vacations or any other long-term absence.
Regular plumbing maintenance is essential, even between professional visits. Homeowners should be aware of issues such as slow drains, leaks, or unusual noises and address them immediately. Simple maintenance tasks like checking for leaks and ensuring proper insulation can prevent major problems. Consistent maintenance helps maintain the integrity of the plumbing system, which means less to worry about during absences.
About Plumb Tite Plumbing, Heating, Cooling & Drains
Plumb Tite Plumbing, Heating, Cooling & Drains, a family-owned and operated company in Cincinnati, OH, offers expert plumbing, heating, cooling, and drain services. They are known for their licensed, trained professionals, on-time arrival, and A+ BBB rating. Schedule a technician today for a plumbing service and to care for that main water valve before it freezes!