Planning a vacation is exciting. Coming home to a flooded basement or a burned-out well pump…isn’t.

If your home has a private well, taking a few minutes to prepare before you leave can help prevent expensive water damage and unnecessary wear on your well system. Whether you’re heading away for a long weekend or a two-week vacation, these simple steps can give you peace of mind while you’re gone.

1. Turn Off Your Main Water Supply and Well Pump

If no one will be home while you’re away, consider shutting off your home’s main water supply and turning off the breaker to your well pump.

This can help prevent a small plumbing leak from becoming a major flood. It also keeps your well pump from running unnecessarily if a leak develops while the house is empty.

If you’re unsure whether this is the right option for your home, ask your well service professional before your trip.

2. Check for Leaks Before You Leave

Walk through your home and look for anything that could become a problem while you’re gone.

Pay special attention to:

• Dripping faucets
• Running toilets
• Washing machine hoses
• Dishwasher connections
• Water around your pressure tank
• Leaks under sinks

A five-minute inspection now could save you from an expensive repair later.

3. Empty and Clean Household Appliances

Before heading out, run and empty your dishwasher, washing machine, and garbage disposal.

Cleaning these appliances helps prevent odors, mildew, and mold from developing while your home sits unused.

4. Turn Down Your Water Heater

If you have a traditional tank water heater, switch it to Vacation Mode or lower the temperature before leaving.

If your home has a tankless water heater, follow the manufacturer’s recommendations.

Lowering the temperature can help reduce energy use while you’re away.

5. Shut Off Outdoor Water

Outdoor faucets and irrigation systems don’t need to be running while you’re on vacation.

If possible:

• Turn off outdoor faucets.
• Shut down irrigation systems.
• Disconnect garden hoses if appropriate.

It’s one less thing to worry about while you’re away.

6. Take a Quick Look at Your Pressure Tank

Your pressure tank works together with your well pump to keep your water system operating properly.

Before your trip, check for:

• Water leaks
• Rust or corrosion
• Unusual noises
• Anything that doesn’t look normal

If something seems off, it’s better to have it checked before you leave than to discover a bigger problem when you return.

7. Let Someone Check on Your Home

Ask a trusted friend, family member, or neighbor to stop by while you’re away.

If they notice standing water, hear an alarm, or see anything unusual, they can contact you before a small issue turns into a major repair.

8. Consider Automatic Leak Protection

If you travel often, an automatic water shut-off valve can provide extra peace of mind.

These systems monitor your home’s water usage and can automatically shut off your water if they detect a leak, helping reduce the risk of significant water damage.

They’re especially popular with homeowners who travel frequently or own seasonal properties.

9. Schedule a Well System Inspection

If it’s been a while since your last inspection, scheduling a well system check before your trip is a smart investment.

A professional inspection can identify developing issues before they become emergencies, helping ensure your well pump, pressure tank, and other components are working properly while you’re away.

Frequently Asked Questions

Should I turn off my well pump when I go on vacation?

If your home will be empty for several days, shutting off your main water supply and the well pump breaker can help reduce the risk of water damage caused by an unexpected leak. Every home is different, so if you’re unsure what’s best for your system, consult a qualified well professional.

Is an automatic water shut-off valve worth it?

For many homeowners, yes. Automatic leak detection systems can sense unusual water flow and shut off the water before extensive damage occurs. They’re especially valuable if you travel frequently or leave your home vacant for extended periods.

How often should a well system be inspected?

A well system should be inspected periodically to help identify worn components, pressure tank issues, pump problems, or other concerns before they lead to an unexpected loss of water.

Enjoy Your Vacation—We’ll Help Take Care of the Water

A little preparation before you leave can go a long way toward protecting your home and your well system.

If you’re planning a trip and it’s been a while since your last well system inspection, County Pump & Supply can help. Our experienced technicians provide well pump service, pressure tank replacement, water treatment, and complete well system service throughout Central Massachusetts.

Have questions before your vacation? Contact County Pump & Supply today.