Prepping Your Salt Lake City Home's Plumbing for a Late-Summer Getaway

Planning one last adventure before summer ends? Whether you're heading to the Wasatch mountains for Labor Day weekend or spending a week at Bear Lake, don't forget about your home's plumbing system.

Salt Lake City summers can bring dry heat, flash storms, and temperature swings. That mix makes vacation plumbing prep essential, especially in older homes or homes with exposed pipes. A few quick steps can save you from having to come back to a soaked floor or an unexpected water bill.

Before you lock the door and hit the road, follow these local plumbing tips to keep your home safe and stress-free.

Should I Turn Off My Water While on Vacation?

Yes, in most cases, it's wise to turn off your water while on vacation. Turning off the main water valve is one of the simplest ways to protect your home from leaks or bursts while you're away. Without water pressure in the system, even a failing washer hose or cracked pipe can't flood your home.

Here's how to do it:

• Locate your main water shut-off valve—usually near where the water line enters your home (often in basements or utility areas in Salt Lake homes).
  Turn the valve clockwise until it stops.
• After shutting it off, open a faucet to let any remaining water drain and relieve pressure.

If you have someone house-sitting or if essential systems like automatic irrigation rely on your water supply, you may choose to leave it on. Just be sure all fixtures are secure and leak-free. If you're unsure where the shut-off is or how to use it, Roto-Rooter's experienced plumbing technicians can help guide you through the process or install an accessible shut-off system.

Drain or Secure Key Plumbing Fixtures

After shutting off the main valve, don't forget to secure individual fixtures. Focus on areas where water tends to sit or leak.

Here's a quick checklist:

• Toilets: Flush once after turning off the main valve to reduce water left in the tank and bowl.
• Sinks: Open faucets to let pressure drain. Close them after they stop running.
• Dishwashers and washing machines: Turn off the water supply valves to prevent hose leaks or slow drips.
  Water heater: If you'll be gone more than a few days, set your unit to “vacation” mode (if available) or lower the thermostat to conserve energy.

If your home uses a swamp cooler (evaporative cooler), you may also want to shut off its water source and power—these can leak if left running unattended in late-summer heat.

Check Outdoor Faucets and Irrigation Systems

Salt Lake City's dry climate and elevation can lead to cracked hose bibs or damaged sprinkler lines, especially if they've seen heavy use during summer. Before you leave:

• Turn off outdoor faucets and check for drips or leaks.
• Inspect garden hoses and remove any attachments.
• Make sure your irrigation system is on a reliable timer and hasn't developed a leak underground.

It's also a good idea to walk your yard and make sure drainage is working properly—monsoon-season rainstorms in late summer can dump water quickly.

Clear Drains and Garbage Disposals

You don't want to return home to strange smells or a backed-up sink. Take a few minutes to clean key drains before leaving:

• Run hot water and dish soap down the kitchen sink.
• Use a mix of baking soda and vinegar to flush slow-draining showers or bathroom sinks.
• If you notice a clog or a gurgling sound, schedule a quick drain inspection with your local Roto-Rooter plumbing company before you go.
  
  

Garbage disposals should also be flushed with cold water after use. Never leave food scraps or grease sitting inside when leaving town.

Prepare for Heat and Unexpected Storms

Salt Lake City weather in late summer can shift quickly. Hot afternoons may give way to cool, rainy evenings. These swings can stress plumbing materials and sometimes lead to condensation or pipe expansion.

To stay ahead of problems:

• Check your home's sump pump if you have one, especially in neighborhoods with high water tables or near the Jordan River.
• Seal any exposed pipes or gaps around windows where humidity can build up.
• Make sure your home's cooling system isn't over-humidifying indoor air (a common issue with older swamp coolers).

If you're leaving town for more than a few days, consider having a trusted neighbor check in or install a smart leak detector that sends alerts straight to your phone.

Schedule a Pre-Trip Plumbing Check With Roto-Rooter

If you're not sure your system is in good shape, don't risk it. Roto-Rooter's professional-grade plumbing inspections can spot slow leaks, signs of corrosion, or hidden damage before you head out on your next adventure.

Trusted and recommended since 1935, our Salt Lake City plumbing team is available 24/7, 365 days a year to help you prep your home and enjoy your getaway worry-free.

Call Roto-Rooter today at 800-768-6911 to book a pre-vacation plumbing check in Salt Lake City.