Every trip, any season
- Turn off water to the washing machine at its valves
- Close the ice maker supply valve
- Set the water heater to vacation mode if it has one
- Check that leak sensors have working batteries
- Give a neighbor or friend a key and show them the main shutoff
- Leave a contact list on the counter
Close the main, or not?
Closing the main is the strongest protection, but a few situations need a second thought.
- IfTrip of more than a couple of days, and no fire sprinklers in the houseThenClose the main shutoff and open a low faucet briefly to relieve pressure.
- IfLawn irrigation needs to run in summerThenClose the main if irrigation has a separate supply; otherwise close the house fixtures you can and add sensors.
- IfThe home has a boiler or system that needs waterThenAsk an HVAC technician before closing the main.
- IfThe house has residential fire sprinklersThenDo not close the valve serving them; ask a plumber how they are connected.
Seasonal additions
| Season | Add these steps |
|---|---|
| Winter | Thermostat no lower than the mid-50s; cabinet doors on exterior walls open; garage door closed; hoses disconnected |
| Spring | Clear window wells; check that the sump pump runs, if present |
| Summer | Turn off irrigation or confirm it is leak-free; check AC condensate drain |
| Fall | Confirm irrigation is blown out and the indoor tap is drained |
Instructions for whoever checks the house
- Walk every level.Look at ceilings under bathrooms and laundry, and the basement floor near the water heater and furnace.
- Listen.Running water sounds with nothing on mean call the owner and close the main.
- Check the thermostat.In winter, confirm the furnace is running and the house is warm.
- Report.Text a quick photo of the thermostat and the basement so the owner knows the check was done.
Common questions
- How low can the thermostat go while I am away in winter?
- Many plumbers suggest no lower than the mid-50s, higher during extreme cold, because pipes in exterior walls and over garages are colder than the room temperature suggests.
- Should I drain the pipes for a long winter trip?
- For a long absence, some owners have a plumber winterize the house by draining supply lines and adding antifreeze to traps. That is more common for vacant houses than for a two-week trip. Ask a plumber what fits your situation.
- What if a neighbor finds water while I am gone?
- They should close the main, switch off breakers to wet rooms if it is safe, and call you. Leave them your insurer's claim line and the name of a plumber you trust.
General information for Highlands Ranch, not a quote or professional advice. In an emergency, call 911.