How to Avoid Leaks, Water Damage, and Backups While You’re Away from Your NOVA Home

Summer vacation should mean beach days and relaxation, with a peaceful “re-entry” when you return home. But the truth is, leaks, backups, and surprise plumbing issues love to pop up when no one’s around. And in Northern Virginia’s humid summer months, even a small drip can turn into a moldy mess if left unchecked.

Before you zip up your suitcase and hit the road, take a few minutes to prep your home with this easy plumbing checklist. It’s the simplest way to return to a home that’s just as calm and clean as you left it.

1. Check Under Sinks and Around Appliances

Start with a quick scan under your kitchen and bathroom sinks, behind the toilet, and around appliances like your dishwasher, refrigerator, and washing machine. Look for puddles, corrosion, or even small drips. If anything looks off, get it fixed before you leave—because even a slow leak can cause real damage in a matter of days.

2. Set Your Water Heater to Vacation Mode

Your water heater doesn’t need to keep working full-time if no one’s home. Most models have a vacation or low-power mode that keeps it from overheating while still protecting the tank. This saves energy and helps extend the life of the system.

If your unit doesn’t have a vacation setting, consider turning the temperature down manually or switching it off at the breaker—especially if you’ve turned off water to the home’s major appliances.

3. Clear Slow Drains and Run the Garbage Disposal

Nothing’s worse than coming home to a stinky kitchen. Before you leave, flush your garbage disposal with hot water and a natural cleaner (like vinegar and baking soda), and run it to make sure it’s clear. Check bathroom drains for hair or buildup and run hot water through them. This keeps odors, pests, and clogs from forming while you’re away.

4. Test Your Sump Pump (If You Have One)

Northern Virginia gets its fair share of summer storms. If you have a sump pump, make sure it’s ready to go:

Pour a bucket of water into the sump pit.
Make sure the pump kicks on automatically.
Watch to ensure it drains properly and shuts off.

If anything seems off, call Falcon for a quick check-up.

Don’t Let Plumbing Problems Ruin Your Return

Vacation should end with a tan and a smile, not a soaked floor or backed-up toilet. A little prep goes a long way. If you want peace of mind before you head out, Falcon Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing offers plumbing inspections and support for homeowners across Northern Virginia.

Schedule your pre-vacation plumbing check today by calling Falcon at (402) 466-7437. Your home will thank you when you get back.