Vacations should mean peace of mind — not worrying about a flooded kitchen or surprise leak back home. At Jazz Heating, Air Conditioning and Plumbing, we’ve helped countless Sonoma County homeowners prevent plumbing problems before they head out of town. With just a little preparation, you can protect your home and return to comfort, not chaos.
1. Inspect for Hidden Leaks Before You Go
Even a small drip can turn into a costly mess if left unchecked for days. Look under sinks, around toilets, and near your water heater. If you spot dampness, mold, or corrosion, schedule a leak detection service before your trip.
Local tip: Homes in older Santa Rosa and Napa neighborhoods often have aging pipes that are more prone to leaks.
2. Shut Off the Main Water Supply
The most reliable way to avoid disaster? Turn off your home’s water supply completely. This prevents burst pipes, running toilets, or slow leaks while you’re away.
- Locate the shutoff valve (often near the water meter).
- Turn clockwise until fully closed.
- Run a faucet briefly to confirm water flow has stopped.
If you have an automatic irrigation system, consider leaving outdoor water on while shutting off indoor plumbing.
3. Prep Your Water Heater
If you’ll be gone more than a few days, set your water heater to “vacation mode” or turn the temperature down to save energy. For older models, it’s a good idea to schedule a quick water heater inspection before you leave.
Local tie-in: During Sonoma County’s cooler months, unmaintained water heaters can work overtime, increasing the risk of leaks.
4. Clear and Protect Your Drains
Slow or clogged drains can back up while you’re away, especially if heavy seasonal rains overwhelm local sewer lines. Consider scheduling a professional drain cleaning to keep everything flowing freely.
Local note: In Petaluma and Sebastopol, older tree-root intrusions are a common source of blockages.
5. Ask a Neighbor or Friend to Check In
Even with prep, things happen. Ask someone you trust to peek inside once or twice during your trip. They can catch small problems before they become disasters.
Keep Your Home Safe While You’re Away
Vacations are meant for relaxation, not plumbing worries. With a little preparation — from shutting off your main water supply to scheduling professional service — you can enjoy your time away knowing your home is protected.
If you’d like help getting your home vacation-ready, the experts atJazz Heating, Air Conditioning and Plumbing are here to help with leak detection, drain cleaning, and water heater service.