While most people take steps to secure the house against break-in when they're gone, how do you prevent water damage while away from home? The fact is, the risk of water damage in an unoccupied house is real and could inflict far greater losses than most burglars. A broken pipe that happens when someone's home to notice and take immediate action is bad enough. A broken pipe that inundates your unoccupied house with water 24/7 until you return can be catastrophic. Here are some things to do prevent water damage while away from home.
Turn off the Supply
Shutting off the water to the the entire house at the main shutoff valve is the most comprehensive protection. Test the valve yearly to make sure it operates freely — they can be very stubborn if they aren't turned regularly. If you don't know the location of your shutoff valve, ask a plumber to show you.
Replace Washing Machine Hoses
Make sure you've replaced the rubber hot and cold water hoses that probably came standard with your washing machine. These hoses harden and rupture entirely when old, gushing water non-stop if nobody's home to turn it off. Braided stainless steel lines are longer-lasting and more secure.
Insulate Pipes in Cold Climates
Frozen water lines that burst are a major cause of home water damage — particularly if freezing weather strikes when you're away. Insulate all water lines you can access with slip-on foam insulation sleeves available at any home center. Also seal up any exterior openings that allow frigid outdoor air into indoor areas where pipes are routed. Consider leaving your furnace on but set to a low temperature of 55 degrees while you're gone.
Think About Automatic Shutoff
If you leave town frequently, consider having a professional plumber install an auto-shutoff valve on your main water supply line. The unit constantly senses water pressure. When sudden pressure losses associated with a pipe rupture occur, it turns off all water to the house automatically.
Prevent catastrophic losses from water damage while away from home with more advice from the pros at Rytech, Inc.
