Shell Busey
Province
Q Should we turn off the main water valve when we go away? Are there any other things should be done?
— Graham, Surrey
A The following is a list of things to do when leaving your home to avoid any unwanted surprises while you’re away.
1. Shut off automatic ice maker in the refrigerator.
2. Shut the water supply off under each toilet tank.
3. Unplug instant hot water heaters, e.g. countertop units.
4. Turn the setting on the hot water tank to vacation.
5. Shut off supply hoses to automatic washing machines.
6. Winterize outside faucets by shutting off the individual water supplies and draining the faucets by turning to the on position.
7. Leave thermostats at 19 degrees Celsius.
The rule of thumb is to shut off anything that might freeze and/or fracture a pipe. I don’t recommend shutting off main water valve since you may have items such as automatic humidifiers that require water. Consider installing a device called The FloodStopper? that detects water appliance and plumbing failure or accidental floods and immediately turns off the water supply. For more information, go to their website: thefloodstopper.com.
© The Vancouver Province 2008
