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How to Prepare Your Plumbing for Vacation and Long Absences

Last updated October 25, 2026

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The short answer

Turn off the Main Water Supply

The single most important step is to shut off the main water valve. This stops water from entering your home, so a burst pipe or a loose connection can't cause flooding. Find the valve before you leave, and make sure it turns easily. If it's stiff, have a plumber replace it now.

After you close the valve, open every faucet in the house to drain the water from the pipes. Flush the toilets as well. This removes standing water that could freeze or leak. Leave the faucets open during your absence to relieve any pressure.

  • Locate your main shutoff valve and test it
  • Turn off the valve fully
  • Open all faucets and flush toilets
  • Leave faucets open to release pressure
  • Consider labeling the valve for easy identification

Drain the Water Heater and Pipes

If you're leaving in cold weather, drain the water heater and the pipes to prevent freezing. Turn off the water heater first, then attach a hose to the drain valve and let the tank empty. Open the hot water faucets to let air in and speed the flow.

For pipe draining, after you shut off the main valve, open all cold and hot faucets. Let the water flow until it stops. This is especially important if you live in an area with sudden temperature drops, as trapped water can freeze and crack pipes.

Set Your Water Heater to Vacation Mode

Many water heaters have a vacation or low setting that keeps the tank from heating while you're gone. If yours doesn't, simply turn it off at the breaker. This saves energy and prevents the heater from running dry if you drain the pipes.

If you leave the water on, keep the heater on the lowest setting to avoid overheating. A cold tank can also develop sediment, so a low setting is safer. Check the owner's manual for the exact vacation mode instructions.

Install a Smart Leak Detector

A smart leak detector alerts you to moisture or a sudden drop in water pressure. Place it near the water heater, under sinks, and behind the washing machine. Some models can shut off the water automatically when a leak is detected.

Even with the main valve off, a leak detector adds an extra layer of protection. It can also monitor temperature and humidity, which helps you spot problems before they become serious. Test the sensor before you leave to ensure it works.

  • Place sensors near water heater and sinks
  • Check battery level before you go
  • Download the app and set alerts
  • Test the sensor with a wet cloth
  • Consider a model with an auto-shutoff valve

Prepare Outdoor Faucets and Hoses

Disconnect all garden hoses and drain them. Store them indoors if possible. For outdoor faucets, shut off the water supply from inside the house if there's a separate valve. If not, cover the spigot with an insulated cover.

If you have an irrigation system, set it to a manual off or adjust the timer to avoid overwatering. A broken sprinkler head can waste water and cause flooding. If you're in Mesquite, keep the outdoor valves accessible and clearly marked.

Water damage does not wait

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Frequently asked questions

Should I turn off the water even for a short trip?

Yes, even a weekend away can be risky. A small leak can cause significant damage in 48 hours. Turning off the main valve is a simple habit that protects your home. It takes less than a minute and gives you peace of mind.

What if I can't turn off the main valve?

If the valve is stuck or hard to turn, call a plumber before you leave. A professional can repair or replace it. In an emergency, you can shut off the water at the meter, but that's not always accessible. Don't leave without a working shutoff.

Do I need to drain the pipes in warm weather?

In warm weather, draining is less critical, but it's still a good idea. It removes stagnant water and reduces pressure. If you leave the water on, at least turn off the water heater to save energy. Draining also helps if you have old pipes.

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