How Do I Prevent Water Damage When I Travel for Months?

The single most effective step is to close the main water shutoff valve for your entire home. This stops any supply from reaching pipes, so a burst line or a leaking connection cannot flood your floors. Locate the valve before you leave, usually near the water meter or where the service line enters the house.

After closing it, open every faucet, both hot and cold, to drain the remaining water from the pipes. Flush toilets until the tank is empty. This removes standing water that could freeze, expand, and crack a pipe while you are away. Leave the faucets open during the trip to relieve pressure.

Washing machines, dishwashers, and ice makers can leak or malfunction even when idle. Unplug them to prevent electrical issues and to stop any automatic fill cycles that might run if a sensor fails. Also, disconnect the supply hoses if you can, and drain any remaining water from the machines.

For a refrigerator with an ice maker, turn off the water supply line and empty the ice bin. Leave the doors slightly open to prevent mold if you turn off the fridge. If you keep the fridge running, place a pan under the ice maker line to catch any slow drip.

If your travel overlaps with winter, take extra steps to protect exposed pipes. Insulate pipes in unheated areas like the attic, crawlspace, or garage. Use foam pipe insulation and secure it with tape. Keep the thermostat set to at least 50 degrees Fahrenheit, even if you are away, to prevent freezing.

Open cabinet doors under sinks to let warm air circulate around the pipes. You can also let a very slow drip from a faucet, but only if the main valve is still open. Since you are shutting off the main valve, the insulation and heating are your primary defenses. A little preparation now saves you from a major cleanup later.