When leaving on vacation, do you recommend shutting off the water at the main source? It does seem like this would be a good idea to minimize risk to water damage to the house, but I am wondering if there is damage you can do by not having water in the pipes. Could this be a problem for the water heater? The dishwasher, washing machine, etc. Or, the pipes in general?

Hi Logan

It ia always a good idea to shut off the water main when going on vacation... ;) Don't open any valves or anything, just shut the main valve off and that is all that is needed.

If you have a gas water heater, you should also consider turning the gas valve to the vacation or pilot lighting setting on the thermostat, or if you have an electric water heater shut off the breaker at the electrical panel.

When you return simply turn the water back on and reset the temperature (or turn on electric) at the water heater.

These simple steps save you money and the potential for a major catastrophe when you return home! Talk about ruining a vacation, huh?

Good luck!

Mark

Thank you Mark! Do you happen to know why some people recommend opening the valves too? I have heard/read pieces that saw the pressure will build up and bust the valve or the hoses will dry out and leak if the water is turned off (when you turn it back on).

Your approach seems to help both those problems -- just wondering why there are so many opinions? [besides the fact that everyone has one :) ]

Hi Logan

Opening the valves will only serve to drain the pipes and cause more work for you when you come home... also disturbs sediments in the pipes which can clog things up and cause real problems when refilling the pipes.

With the water main shutoff and the pipes/hoses left undisturbed there is nothing that can go wrong as pipes/hoses can't burst (no pressure, right?).

Good luck!

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Originally Posted by massplumber2008

Hi Logan

Opening the valves will only serve to drain the pipes and cause more work for you when you come home...also disturbs sediments in the pipes which can clog things up and cause real problems when refilling the pipes.

With the water main shutoff and the pipes/hoses left undisturbed there is nothing that can go wrong as pipes/hoses can't burst (no pressure, right?).

Good luck!

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Thanks again Mark! I appreciate your expertise! (and, a more relaxing vacation) :)

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When leaving on vacation, do you recommend shutting off the water at the main source? I

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Shutting the water off when you leave on vacation is the cheapest insurance you'll ever buy. I have seen thousands of dollars of damage from a leak that was left alone.

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I am wondering if there is damage you can do by not having water in the pipes

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Wonder no more, Your pipes won't be harmed.

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Could this be a problem for the water heater?

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No! Simply shut the power off or put it on vacation setting.

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The dishwasher, washing machine, etc. Or, the pipes in general?

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None of the above.
Have yourself a great "worry free" vacation. Tom