SERVPRO Tips To Prevent Your Scottsdale Home From Flooding While You're On Vacation

2/4/2021 (Permalink)

The SERVPRO tips can help prevent your Scottsdale home from water damage and from looking like this while you are on vacation.

How devastating would it be to come home from vacation and find out that your Scottsdale home has flooded? It happens more often than you would think. Thankfully, there are actions that you can take to help prevent this common disaster. Here are some tips from USA Today.

https://traveltips.usatoday.com/prevent-water-damage-vacation-1660.htm

STEP 1

Check your home for leaks before you leave. Look at the pipes under all sinks, and check your water heater for cracks and rust. The seals around your windows must be in good condition, and check that there are no dislodged or damaged shingles on your roof. Re-caulk seals and replace shingles if needed.

STEP 2

Inspect the hoses that connect to major appliances such as washing machines, dishwashers and refrigerator ice-makers. Make sure there are no kinks; replace any old or damaged hoses.

STEP 3

Clear all the debris out of your rain gutters, and check the downspouts for any blockages.

STEP 4

Examine your sump pump and check that it is in good condition and clear of debris by filling the sump pit and running the pump. Listen to the motor for strange sounds and watch that the water is going outside. Install a battery-powered backup source in case there is a power outage while you are gone.

STEP 5

Insulate exposed pipes to keep them from freezing in the winter. Hardware stores sell foam rubber or fiberglass sleeves that fit right over the pipes. Protect outdoor spigots by removing any hoses and covering the spigots with bib protectors. Leave the heat on low while you are gone to also prevent freezing pipes.

STEP 6

Ask someone to check your house periodically while you are gone. Show him where the thermostat is so he can ensure the heat is always on in the winter. He should also know where the water main is located in case a pipe leaks or bursts. The water main shut-off valve is usually in a home's basement, garage or outdoors near the foundation.

STEP 7

Turn off the water at the main if there is no one to check your house. Drain the pipes to keep them from bursting in freezing weather by running the water and flushing the toilets after you shut off the water. Leave the cupboards under sinks open while you are gone to allow warm air to circulate around the pipes.

It's always good to plan ahead. However, if you do experience the unfortunate circumstance of a flood in your home, you can count on our team at SERVPRO of Paradise Valley to restore your home and your belongings.

More information and resources at:

https://traveltips.usatoday.com/prevent-water-damage-vacation-1660.html

https://www.angieslist.com/articles/6-ways-prevent-water-damage-your-home-while-you-are-away.htm