How to Protect the Home from Water Damage While the Homeowner Is Traveling

Water damage is not an experience any homeowner wants to face after arriving home from a long trip or an extended vacation. However, life happens, and sometimes life includes a property damage disaster. In that situation, contact the professionals at Restore-It Restoration and Cleaning for a rapid response and reliable customer service that will return life to normal as quickly as possible.

When the topic of water damage comes up, most homeowners think of storm-related water intrusions. However, most water damage incidents experienced in and around the home result from leaks in pipes and connections that need maintenance. A water leak that occurs while the homeowner is on vacation or an extended business trip is a recipe for a very unpleasant homecoming surprise.

The water damage prevention tips listed below will help homeowners avoid damage to or the loss of their property.

Tip #1: Consider utilizing leak detection devices.

Affordable leak detection technologies provide homeowners the early warnings they need to avert serious water damage in those high-risk areas of the home, such as under sinks. Some models require technical expertise to install, while other types can be easily installed by the homeowner. Place the devices in areas where a water release is more prone. Real-time alerts can be sent to a smartphone when a water leak occurs.

Tip #2: Only operate appliances that use water when someone is present to keep an eye on the situation.

Appliance failure can occur at any time. When the supply line to the washer or dishwasher fails, as much as seven to nine gallons of water per minute can flood onto the floor. An hour’s trip to the mall could lead to 500 gallons of water spilling into the kitchen or laundry room, adjacent rooms, and possibly even the basement.

Tip #3: Install automatic valve shutoff devices.

More sophisticated leak detection systems can automatically shut off the water flow when the system senses a leak.

Tip #4: Locate shutoff valves and be familiar with how they work.

Create a simple map of valve locations, and include operating instructions with the map. Post the map in key places around the home, such as near the main electrical panel box, inside the cabinet above the washing machine, in the garage, and on the cloud where it can be accessed by a smartphone or computer.

Store the water meter shutoff curb key in an easily accessible location in the home. Include a note about the location of the shutoff tool on the maps strategically located throughout the house. This tool alone can prevent thousands of dollars in water damage. Shutoff keys are less than $20 at the local big box hardware store, and a spare key could prove useful if the main tool is misplaced. Be sure to test each tool on the main valve to ensure the key works. Use bright orange paint to carefully mark the valve inside the meter box so that the valve can be seen in low light.

Tip #5: Consider shutting off all water in the event of an extended absence.

Consult a professional before shutting off the main valve for an extended period. If shutting off the main valve is not advisable, consider shutting off the supply lines to major appliances, toilets, and faucets. Consult a professional regarding the proper protocol for dealing with the water heater. A cold shower after a long trip is not a good scenario.

Tip #6: Keep the home at 55 degrees Fahrenheit or warmer if the vacation or trip is during the winter months.

This strategy will prevent most interior pipes from freezing. Open the cabinet doors under the sinks. If frigid weather is in the forecast during the homeowner’s absence, have a friend or family member inspect the residence for water leaks and water damage.

Tip #7: Properly maintain appliances, faucets, and toilets.

Older homes and plumbing systems increase the risk of a leak. Replace shutoff valves, supply lines, and faucet washers as prescribed by the manufacturer.

Tip #8: Conduct frequent inspections of high-risk areas.

Drips, moisture, or a mildewy smell may indicate a plumbing issue. Cracks, dislocations, corrosion, and deposits on exposed pipes and plumbing are indications that a plumbing professional may need to assess the situation.

A water damage disaster is disruptive, inconvenient, and stressful, and homeowners who have experienced a water intrusion understand the importance of hiring a dependable service provider for water damage cleanup. The professionals at Restore-It Restoration and Cleaning are IICRC-certified and ready to serve the restoration and cleaning needs of El Dorado and the surrounding areas.

Contact Restore-It Restoration and Cleaning for more information about water damage restoration services. The team can be reached by phone at (870) 417-4614.