Leaving for Vacation – 12 Steps to Take Before Leaving to Prevent Water Damage and Mold

Going on vacation is a time to unwind, but the last thing you want is to come home to water damage and mold growth. Imagine walking back into your home only to be met with a misty fog of humidity, or worse, finding mold creeping up walls and across the floors. 

This kind of damage can require extensive repairs—flooring, drywall, and sometimes even major renovations. Thankfully, taking a few preventive steps before you leave can help you avoid a homecoming disaster. So, let’s get into the best ways to prevent water damage while on vacation and keep your home safe.

Step 1: Turn Off Toilet Valves to Prevent Leaks

Toilets are notorious for leaking, and a small, unnoticed leak can lead to massive water damage over time. Before leaving for vacation:

• Locate the shutoff valves for each toilet. Typically, they’re found on the wall just behind or beside the toilet bowl.
• Turn the valve clockwise to shut it off completely. This will prevent any water from flowing into the toilet tank, making it impossible for leaks to develop in your absence.

By turning off these valves, you’re preventing a potential source of overflow, leaks, or even minor drips that could lead to humidity buildup in your home.

Step 2: Adjust Your Hot Water Heater

Water heaters are essential appliances, but they can be risky when left running unattended for extended periods. A water heater leak can go unnoticed for days, resulting in costly repairs if water seeps into flooring, drywall, and lower wall areas.

• Set the temperature to the lowest possible setting or, if possible, switch it to a “vacation mode.” Some modern water heaters even have vacation settings that maintain a minimal level of heat without wasting energy.
• If you’re leaving for a long period and have an older heater, consider turning it off entirely if it’s easy to restart. This will prevent leaks from water pressure building up in the tank.

Step 3: Adjust Your AC’s Temperature

Humidity control is essential to preventing mold growth, especially in the summer months. Your AC can help regulate indoor humidity levels to reduce the risk of mold. If you have pets, keep your AC at a comfortable temperature, like 75-80°F. For most homes, this range will help keep indoor air circulating without overworking the system.

If you don’t have a pet, set your thermostat to around 85°F during summer or a bit lower in high-humidity areas. This setting will keep air moving, reducing humidity without running up energy costs.

Air conditioners help pull moisture from the air, keeping mold growth at bay while you’re away.

Step 4: Get a Water Monitor for Extra Peace of Mind

Water monitors are a great option if you want to stay updated on what’s happening with your home’s plumbing while on vacation.

• Invest in smart water sensors that alert you to leaks, high humidity, or sudden water flow. These sensors are easy to install and can notify you via an app if something goes wrong.
• Place sensors in high-risk areas, like around toilets, near the water heater, under sinks, and close to your washing machine.

Some advanced systems can automatically shut off your water if they detect an unusual flow, giving you complete peace of mind.

Step 5: Clear Your Gutters and Downspouts

While your gutters might seem like an unrelated aspect, clogged gutters can cause serious water damage. When gutters overflow, water can seep into the home’s foundation, walls, or roof, making conditions ripe for mold.

• Before you go, clean out your gutters and downspouts to remove any leaves, debris, or buildup.
• Ensure downspouts are directed away from the home’s foundation. Extending downspouts to direct water further away is a great way to protect your home’s structure.

Step 6: Check Your Home’s Exterior for Cracks and Vulnerabilities

A quick inspection of your home’s exterior can reveal any vulnerabilities that could lead to water damage.

• Look for cracks in your foundation, siding, or roof and seal them up to prevent water intrusion.
• Inspect door and window seals for any gaps where rain or moisture could enter.

These small maintenance tasks can make a big difference in keeping water out of your home and preventing mold growth.

Step 7: Don’t Forget About the Basement and Crawl Spaces

Basements and crawl spaces are common culprits for water damage and mold growth, especially during rainy seasons.

• Check for existing leaks or signs of dampness, and if necessary, use a dehumidifier before you leave to dry the area out.
• If you don’t already have one, consider installing a sump pump with a battery backup in case heavy rain or groundwater levels rise while you’re away.

Ensuring these spaces are dry before you leave can help prevent standing water and unwanted humidity.

Step 8: Clean and Dry Your Appliances

Appliances that use water, such as dishwashers, washing machines, and refrigerators, can be hidden sources of water leaks.

• Run a final cycle on your dishwasher and washing machine. Make sure both are fully dry before you leave.
• Empty the water dispenser and ice maker in your fridge, then turn them off if you’ll be away longer.

Pro Tip: Leave the doors slightly ajar on appliances like dishwashers and washing machines to prevent mold from forming inside.

Step 9: Turn Off the Water Supply to Appliances

Turning off the water supply to your major appliances is a simple way to prevent water mishaps. Locate the shutoff valves for your washing machine, dishwasher, and other water-reliant appliances, and turn them off.

This is especially important if you’re going to be away for a while; a burst hose or faulty valve could create a flood that you won’t notice until it’s too late.

Step 10: Keep the Drains Clear and Use Drain Stoppers

Drains that aren’t flowing properly can back up and cause issues. Check your kitchen sink, bathroom drains, and shower drains for any blockages.

Consider using drain stoppers if you’ll be away for an extended period, which can prevent unwanted water from coming up through the pipes.

Step 11: Inspect and Seal Your Windows and Doors

Water can enter through windows and doors if they aren’t properly sealed.

• Look for gaps or cracks around the frames of all your windows and doors.
• Use weatherstripping or caulk to seal any spaces. Not only will this keep water out, but it’ll also help with energy efficiency.

Rain can come with a lot of force, and if your windows aren’t properly sealed, you may come back to water-stained walls or even mold growth.

Step 12: Have a Neighbor Check In

Nothing beats the watchful eyes of a good neighbor. Ask a friend, family member, or trusted neighbor to check on your home while you’re away.

• Have them inspect key areas: They should take a quick look at the toilets, water heater, and any areas prone to leaks or water accumulation.
• Request that they keep an eye out for unusual signs: Standing water, musty smells, or damp spots are tell-tale signs of potential issues.

A quick visit every few days could prevent a minor leak from becoming a major headache.

Conclusion: Return to a Safe, Dry, and Mold-Free Home

Taking these precautions can help you avoid an unfortunate surprise when you return from vacation. By addressing your home’s water systems, adjusting the temperature, and adding a few layers of protection, you can drastically reduce the risk of water damage and mold growth. 

Just imagine—coming home to a fresh, dry, and welcoming space instead of a musty disaster! Taking a little time to prepare now can save you a world of hassle, expense, and inconvenience later.

Safe travels and happy vacationing!