If you’re planning a vacation away from your Redmond, Oregon home—whether it’s a weekend getaway or a long summer trip—the last thing you want is to return to a plumbing disaster. Burst pipes, flooded basements, or costly water leaks can turn a relaxing trip into a stressful and expensive ordeal.
At Einstein Pros Redmond, we believe in prevention first. That’s why we’ve created this comprehensive vacation plumbing checklist to help you avoid any unexpected issues while you’re away. With the right steps, you can leave your home worry-free and return to it just as you left it—dry and damage-free.
1. Turn Off the Main Water Supply
One of the most effective ways to avoid plumbing issues is to turn off your home’s main water valve before leaving. This simple step prevents water from continuously flowing into your pipes and eliminates the risk of a leak or pipe burst while you’re gone.
- Locate your main shut-off valve (usually near where the water main enters the home).
- Turn it clockwise until it’s fully closed.
- After shutting off the water, open a faucet on the lowest level of your home to drain residual water pressure.
According to Angi, shutting off your water supply is one of the most overlooked yet critical steps in vacation prep.
2. Drain Outdoor Faucets and Irrigation Lines
Redmond’s fluctuating temperatures—even in summer—can sometimes cause residual water in outdoor plumbing to freeze overnight, especially in shaded areas or higher elevations. Before leaving:
- Turn off and drain all outdoor spigots.
- Shut off your irrigation system, if applicable.
- Consider installing a frost-proof hose bib for long-term protection.
Learn more about cold weather prep from Home Depot’s Plumbing Guides.
3. Inspect for Leaks
Before departure, check all plumbing fixtures and connections for signs of slow leaks or drips:
- Faucets and under-sink connections
- Toilet bases and tank interiors
- Dishwasher and washing machine hoses
Even a slow drip can cause hundreds of gallons of water waste over a two-week period. Make any necessary repairs before your trip or schedule a plumbing inspection in Redmond with Einstein Pros to be sure everything’s in working order.
4. Set Your Water Heater to Vacation Mode
Your water heater doesn’t need to work overtime while you’re away. Many newer models have a “vacation” or “low” setting that lowers the tank temperature to save energy without shutting it off entirely.
- For electric heaters: Lower the thermostat to the lowest setting.
- For gas heaters: Set the dial to “Vacation” mode.
This step not only reduces energy costs but also extends the life of your appliance. If you’re unsure about your unit’s settings, consult the manual or consider a water heater service from Einstein Pros before you leave.
5. Clean Drains and Garbage Disposals
Don’t leave lingering food or grime in your garbage disposal or sink drains. Over time, trapped debris can lead to foul odors or even blockages.
- Run your garbage disposal with a mix of ice cubes and lemon juice.
- Flush all drains with baking soda and vinegar followed by hot water.
This small task ensures your home smells fresh when you return and prevents potential backups.
6. Test and Secure Sump Pumps
If your home has a basement or crawlspace equipped with a sump pump, it’s crucial to ensure it’s functioning properly—especially during rainy seasons in Central Oregon.
- Pour water into the sump pit and observe the pump’s operation.
- Check that the discharge line is free of obstructions.
Consider installing a battery backup if you expect storms during your absence. A failed sump pump during heavy rain can result in severe water damage.
7. Enlist a Trusted Neighbor or Use Smart Technology
Ask a neighbor or friend to check on your home every few days or invest in smart home devices that can alert you to leaks or flooding. Popular tools include:
- Smart water leak detectors
- Wi-Fi-connected water shut-off valves
- Smart thermostats (to monitor freezing risk in colder seasons)
These investments can notify you of plumbing problems in real time—even if you’re across the globe.
8. Secure All Toilets and Turn Off Individual Supply Valves
Even if you don’t shut off your main water supply, you can still minimize risk by turning off the water valves under each toilet, sink, and appliance.
- Turn valves clockwise until they’re snug.
- Flush and drain the tank to remove residual water.
This isolates any potential leaks to specific fixtures while still allowing limited water access if needed (such as for automatic pet feeders or house sitters).
Peace of Mind Starts with Preparation
Taking the time to prep your plumbing before a vacation doesn’t just prevent costly surprises—it ensures peace of mind while you’re enjoying your time away. At Einstein Pros Redmond, we’re here to help homeowners protect their investments through seasonal maintenance, expert inspections, and 24/7 plumbing services when needed.
Whether you’re preparing for a weekend in Portland or a month abroad, we encourage you to schedule a vacation plumbing check before you go.
Need professional help? Contact Einstein Pros Redmond for expert plumbing services and vacation prep support.