Should You Shut Off the Water Main When You Go on Vacation?

You wouldn't leave your front door wide open during vacation, so why leave your water system primed for disaster? That tiny drip you've been meaning to fix could be plotting a full-scale home invasion while you're snapping selfies at the beach. That's just one reason to turn off the water main when on vacation.

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Is It Better to Turn Off the Main Water Main When on Vacation?

The answer is a resounding yes. Shutting off your home's main water supply when you're away for more than a day or two is a wise precaution you can take to protect your property. Just as you lock your doors and windows before leaving, turning off your water main creates an essential safeguard against unexpected plumbing disasters.

If you don't turn off your water main while away:

• A small leak could turn into major water damage.

• Burst pipes could flood your entire home.

• Appliance failures (washing machine, dishwasher, water heater) could release hundreds of gallons of water.

• Your water bill could skyrocket from undetected leaks.

• When you turn off your water main before vacation:

• You eliminate the risk of major water damage from burst pipes.

• Your plumbing system remains in a stable, pressurized state.

• You gain peace of mind while traveling.

• You avoid potentially expensive emergency repairs.

What Are the Benefits of Shutting Off Water When Away?

Shutting off your water when you go away for a vacation can save you money in several ways.

Prevents Costly Water Damage

Water damage is a common and expensive issue. Turning off your water main for vacation effectively eliminates the risk of major water damage occurring while you're away.

Protects Your Possessions

Water damage affects your home's structure, and it can destroy family heirlooms, electronics, furniture and other irreplaceable items. By shutting off your water main, you're also protecting everything inside your home from potential water damage.

Saves on Insurance Premiums

Your insurance company might view vacation water shut-off as a responsible homeowner practice. Some insurance companies may offer discounts to policyholders who take this precaution. Check with your provider to see if turning off your water main qualifies you for savings.

Minimizes Emergency Plumbing Calls

Nothing ruins a vacation like receiving a panicked call from a neighbor about water pouring from your home. Emergency plumbing services can cost more than the standard rate, especially on weekends or holidays.

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How Do I Turn Off My Water?

Finding and turning off your main water valve isn't complicated, but it helps to know where to look before an emergency arises.

Step 1: Locate Your Water Main Shut-Off Valve

Most homes have their main water shut-off valve in one of these locations:

• Near the water meter, often in the basement or utility room

• Along an exterior wall, typically facing the street

• In a ground-level box near the street (in warmer climates)

• In the garage, near where the main water line enters

Step 2: Turn Off the Valve

Once you've located your water main:

• For lever-style valves, rotate the handle 90 degrees so it's perpendicular to the pipe.

• For wheel-style valves, turn clockwise until the valve is closed.

• For key-style valves, insert the specialized key and turn clockwise.

Step 3: Test the Shut-Off

After turning off your water main, test it by running a faucet until the water stops flowing. This confirms the valve is working properly and releases pressure from your pipes. When you return from vacation, slowly turn your water main back on and check for any leaks that may have developed while the system was depressurized.

This quick task provides peace of mind, letting you enjoy your travels without worrying about plumbing emergencies developing back home.

Consider taking photos of your shut-off valve for reference and sharing this information with a trusted neighbor or family member. Add a vacation water shut-off reminder to your pre-travel checklist, placing it alongside "Hold mail" and "Set thermostat." With proper preparation, protecting your home from water damage while traveling becomes second nature.