As a globetrotter, you’ve got your bags packed, your itinerary set, and your passport ready to collect new stamps. Maybe you plan on being away for a few months? Maybe you plan on going on a world trip? But have you thought about what happens to your plumbing while you’re off exploring the wonders of the world? 

Actually, who even does that? It might seem like a trivial concern, but leaving your home’s plumbing system unattended for extended periods can lead to some unexpected and unwelcome surprises. As in, it’s really bad! This isn’t to make you think you shouldn’t travel for weeks or months at a time, but awareness helps! 

Stagnant water and its mischief

So a lot of people don’t know about this, but it’s something that’s really important! When water sits idle in your pipes for weeks or even months, it can cause a host of problems. Stagnant water is a breeding ground for bacteria, and in extreme cases, it can lead to biofilm formation. Have you ever turned on a water faucet that hasn’t been turned on in a while, and it smells really bad? Maybe it has this gross rusty hue to it? Yeah, that’s it! This not only affects the quality of your drinking water but can also pose health risks. But on top of that, stagnant water in your pipes can lead to unpleasant odours wafting through your home, welcoming you back with a less-than-pleasant aroma.

Freezing temperatures

So this really depends on where you live and when you plan on traveling. For example, if you plan on traveling during the winter months, you’ll need to keep a close eye on this. So, how can this even be risky? Well, water left in pipes can freeze, especially if your heating system isn’t on a low, steady setting to keep things just warm enough. 

So, you really have to keep in mind that frozen pipes can crack or burst, causing significant damage to your home. It’s going to be really costly, and you’ll have to get some plumbers to help you out with this situation! Seriously, just imagine returning from a delightful vacation to find your basement flooded or your walls damaged by water leakage. Not exactly the homecoming you’d hoped for! It’s reduce you to tears, right?

Silent leaks are a big problem

A tiny leak might not seem like a big deal, but if it’s left unattended, it can turn into a major problem. So, just think about it for just a moment; a slow drip can lead to water damage, mould growth, and even structural issues over time if you’re away for an extended period; a small, unnoticed leak can cause extensive and costly damage- a lot. Leaks truly do lead to one bad thing, and then another, and then to the structural integrity of your home also getting damaged. It’s just far from ideal.

Uninvited guests

Your plumbing system can also become a gateway for pests if it’s not used for a long time. Insects and small rodents can make their way into your home through dry drain pipes. Regular water flow acts as a deterrent, so without it, your home might become more inviting to these unwanted visitors. But yes, if they’re too wet, that also invites pests, so technically, there’s no winning situation.