Skip to main content
Why Preparing Your Home is Non-Negotiable
Whether you’re traveling for a weekend or an extended holiday break, safeguarding your home’s plumbing and heating systems is essential to avoid costly repairs and return to a stress-free home. In this guide, we’ll explore actionable tips to winterize your plumbing, optimize heating systems, and prepare for extreme weather while you’re away. From turning off your water supply to leveraging smart home tech, we’ve got you covered.
Table of Contents
1. Why Winterizing Your Plumbing Matters
2. How to Safely Shut Off Your Water Supply
3. Adjusting or Turning Off Your Water Heater
4. Insulating Pipes to Prevent Freezing
5. Optimizing Your Heating System Before You Travel
6. Preparing for Power Outages and Extreme Weather
7. Leveraging Smart Technology for Home Monitoring
8. Holiday Home Prep Checklist
9. Conclusion: Peace of Mind While You’re Away
Why Winterizing Your Plumbing Matters
Frozen pipes are among the most common and damaging winter home issues. According to the Insurance Information Institute, a single burst pipe can cause upwards of $10,000 in water damage. Preventing such disasters starts with proactive plumbing care.
Key Risks of Neglect:
– Burst pipes from expanding ice
– Water heater failure due to stagnant water or freezing
– Skyrocketing energy bills from inefficient heating
How to Safely Shut Off Your Water Supply
Turning off your water supply is one of the simplest ways to protect your home from leaks and floods while you’re away.
Step-by-Step Guide:
1. Locate the Main Water Valve: Typically found near the water meter outside the home.
2. Shut Off the Water: Turn the valve clockwise until it’s fully closed.
3. Drain Your Pipes: Open faucets and flush toilets to remove remaining water.
4. Turn Off Individual Valves (Optional): If you’re concerned about specific appliances, turn off their dedicated valves.
Pro Tip: Install a smart water shut-off valve for remote control and real-time leak alerts.
Adjusting or Turning Off Your Water Heater
Water heaters account for nearly 18% of home energy use. Adjusting or turning off your unit while you’re away can prevent unnecessary wear and reduce costs.
Tank Water Heaters:
– Vacation Mode: Most modern units have a vacation mode to maintain a lower, energy-saving temperature.
– Turn Off the Heater: If vacation mode isn’t available, set the thermostat to the lowest setting or turn it off entirely.
Tankless Water Heaters:
– Power Off: Simply unplug or turn off the breaker switch for the unit.
When to Keep It On:
– If your home is prone to freezing temperatures, keep the water heater running at a minimal setting to prevent frozen pipes.
Insulating Pipes to Prevent Freezing
Frozen pipes are preventable with proper insulation and temperature management.
How to Insulate Pipes:
– Foam Insulation Tubes: Install foam sleeves on exposed pipes in basements, garages, and crawl spaces.
– Heat Tape: Use electric heat tape for pipes in extremely cold areas.
– Outdoor Faucets: Disconnect hoses, drain spigots, and cover faucets with insulated caps.
Pro Tip: Keep cabinet doors open under sinks to allow warm air to circulate around pipes.
Optimizing Your Heating System Before You Travel
A properly functioning heating system is essential to avoid frozen pipes and maintain home safety while you’re away.
Checklist for Heating Prep:
1. Set the Thermostat: Maintain a minimum temperature of 55°F.
2. Replace Filters: Dirty filters make heating systems work harder, reducing efficiency.
3. Schedule Maintenance: Have a professional inspect your HVAC system to ensure it’s winter-ready.
Smart Thermostats:
– Program heating schedules or adjust remotely.
– Set up temperature alerts to monitor sudden drops.
Preparing for Power Outages and Extreme Weather
Winter storms can knock out power, leaving your home vulnerable to freezing.
Emergency Prep Tips:
– Backup Generator: Ensure a portable or standby generator is ready for use.
– Battery-Powered Heaters: Keep compact heaters on hand for emergencies.
– Insulate Your Home: Seal windows, doors, and other drafty areas to retain heat.
Pro Tip: Install surge protectors to safeguard appliances during power fluctuations.
Leveraging Smart Technology for Home Monitoring
Smart home devices can provide real-time updates and peace of mind while you’re away.
Essential Devices:
1. Smart Leak Detectors: Alerts you to leaks or flooding.
2. Smart Thermostats: Allows remote temperature control and alerts.
3. Smart Cameras: Monitor your home’s interior and exterior.
Recommended Products:
– LeakSmart Water Detector
– Nest Learning Thermostat
– Ring Indoor Cam
Home Away Check Prep List
Peace of Mind While You’re Away
Preparing your plumbing and heating systems before a weekend of travel isn’t just a to-do list—it’s an investment in peace of mind. By taking these steps, you can focus on making memories instead of worrying about costly surprises back home.
Don’t leave your home’s safety to chance. Start your holiday preparation today and enjoy a worry-free getaway!
