Whether you’re heading out for a weekend camping trip in the Rockies or jetting off for a long summer getaway, the last thing you want to come home to is a flooded kitchen or a burst pipe. Unfortunately, plumbing problems don’t take a vacation just because you do. Many common issues, such as hidden leaks, water heater failures, or sump pump malfunctions, often go unnoticed when no one is home.
That’s why plumbing prep for vacation is an innovative and necessary step for any homeowner leaving town this summer. With just a few proactive measures and the support of professional plumbing services, you can leave your home with peace of mind and return to it just as you left it – dry, safe, and stress-free.
In this blog, we’ll walk you through essential summer plumbing inspection steps, explain what is considered a plumbing emergency, and show how leak detection services from Lion Home Service can help you avoid costly repairs.
Why Summer Is High Risk for Plumbing Problems
In Northern Colorado, summer brings heat, sudden storms, and increased water usage, all of which can stress your home’s plumbing system. If you’re away when a problem starts, it can escalate fast. A small leak may go unnoticed for days or weeks, leading to mold, structural damage, or excessively high water bills.
Even outdoor faucets, irrigation lines, and hose bibs are susceptible to damage. With unpredictable summer weather, flash flooding and power outages can also impact sump pumps or expose weak plumbing connections.
That’s why a summer plumbing inspection isn’t just smart; it’s essential.
Step 1: Schedule a Summer Plumbing Inspection Before You Leave
The easiest way to prevent a plumbing disaster is to have a licensed professional inspect your system before your trip. At Lion Home Service, our summer plumbing inspections are designed with Northern Colorado homeowners in mind. We check for:
- Active or hidden leaks
- Water heater condition
- Sump pump functionality
- Outdoor plumbing stability
- Main water shut-off valve operation
- Sewer line blockages
- Corrosion or pipe degradation
Identifying issues now allows you to resolve them before they become a costly problem.
Pro Tip:
Even if everything seems fine, a routine inspection can catch slow leaks or hairline cracks that worsen under summer stress. These are best found using professional leak detection services.
Step 2: Turn Off the Main Water Valve
Unless someone will be regularly checking your home, it’s a good idea to shut off your main water valve before leaving. This cuts off the supply to your entire plumbing system, significantly reducing the risk of flooding or major water damage while you’re gone.
Not sure where your shut-off is or how to operate it? That’s where Lion’s plumbing services come in. We can show you how to safely shut things down and test the valve to ensure it’s functioning properly.
Step 3: Check and Drain Your Water Heater
If you’re gone for more than a few days, your water heater continues to work even when you don’t need it to. Consider switching it to “vacation mode” (available on many modern units) or turning it off entirely to save energy and reduce risk.
Leaving town for a week or more? Draining the unit might be the safest move, especially if it’s aging or hasn’t been serviced in a while.
Step 4: Test Your Sump Pump (If You Have One)
In Colorado, where summer storms can bring sudden rain and hail, sump pumps are your first line of defense against basement flooding. Before leaving, pour a few gallons of water into the pit and ensure the pump turns on and drains properly.
If your pump is showing signs of age, making strange noises, or responding slowly, schedule a checkup. Lion’s leak detection services and sump pump inspections can ensure you’re protected from sudden water intrusion.
Step 5: Inspect Appliances and Fixtures
Before you leave, walk through your home and check these common leak culprits:
- Under-sink pipes and valves
- Toilet connections
- Washing machine hoses
- Dishwasher and fridge water lines
- Outdoor spigots and irrigation systems
Make sure nothing is dripping, loose, or corroded. Replace worn-out hoses and tighten any loose fittings.
Step 6: Know What Is Considered a Plumbing Emergency
Not every plumbing problem requires immediate action, but some do. So, if you have a house-sitter or neighbor keeping an eye on things, make sure they know what is considered a plumbing emergency and how to respond.
Here’s a quick list of plumbing emergencies:
- Burst pipes
- Sewage backup
- No running water
- Major leaks or flooding
- Frozen or cracked pipes
- Non-working sump pump during a storm
- No hot water
Having Lion Home Service’s number saved can make a big difference in response time. We’re available to respond to plumbing emergencies quickly, even if you’re out of town.
Step 7: Invest in Smart Leak Detection
For homeowners who travel often, installing a smart leak detection system can provide 24/7 peace of mind. These systems monitor your plumbing in real-time and alert you (via app or text) to potential leaks, pressure changes, or burst pipes.
They can even automatically shut off water to prevent damage.
Lion Home Service offers installation and service for leading smart leak detection systems customized for your home. Combined with our professional leak detection services, you’ll never be caught off guard again.
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) estimates that household leaks waste nearly 1 trillion gallons of water annually in the U.S., the average household can save about 10% on their water bill just by fixing leaks.
Why Choose Lion Home Service for Plumbing Prep?
When it comes to plumbing prep for vacation, Lion Home Service is the trusted name Colorado homeowners count on. Here’s why:
- Fast, reliable service from licensed local experts
- Detailed inspections and honest recommendations
- Smart technology solutions for leak detection and prevention
- Transparent pricing, no upsells, no surprises
- Emergency plumbing support even if you’re away
We understand that peace of mind doesn’t come from hoping things go well; it comes from knowing you’ve taken the right steps to protect your home.
Does Lion Home Service Offer Plumbing Services In My Town?
Here at Lion Home Service, we pride ourselves on being a full-service plumbing company for the following locations:
- • Fort Collins plumbers
- • Loveland plumbers
- • Greeley plumbers
- • Longmont plumbers
- • Windsor plumbers
- • Boulder
- • Estes Park
- • Bellvue
- • Fort Lupton
- • Eaton
- • Fort Morgan
Don’t see your city listed above? Give us a call anyway! We might be able to help you out!
Don’t Leave Your Home at Risk, Book Your Summer Plumbing Inspection Today
Whether you’re leaving town for a weekend or a few weeks, don’t take chances with your home’s plumbing. Lion Home Service offers plumbing services near you in Fort Collins, Loveland, Greeley, Longmont, Windsor, and throughout Northern Colorado, designed to safeguard your home before problems happen.
Book your summer plumbing inspection or ask about our leak detection services today, and leave home knowing everything is under control.
