Key takeaways
- Traps dry out in an empty house
- Run water in every fixture before you leave and on return
- A planned visit while you are away keeps seals in place
- Check the sump and floor drains
What happens when nobody is home
Drain traps are held full by use. When nobody uses a fixture for weeks, the water in the trap evaporates and sewer air comes into the house. Standing water in lines can also grow slime.
The result is the stale, musty smell people notice when they open the door.
Before you leave
Run water in every fixture and floor drain, pour a little cooking oil into rarely used traps to slow evaporation, empty the dishwasher and washing machine and clean the kitchen drain. Leave the thermostat at a safe temperature.
Know where your main shutoff is.
While you are away
For stays of more than a few weeks, ask someone to run water in each fixture every month, or schedule a drain check. Check the sump pit and pump before long absences during the wet season.
A quarterly visit suits most seasonal properties.
When you return
Run every tap and flush every toilet before use, look under sinks for leaks and check floor drains. If a smell lingers, the trap or a vent may need attention, and we can look.
Add the return checks to your travel list.
Quick answers
How long can a house sit empty?
A few weeks is usually fine with traps topped up. For longer, plan visits.
Should I shut off the water?
For long absences, many people do. Ask about the right steps for your house.
Ready to put this on a schedule?
Call (615) 952-0844 or send the form below, and we will suggest a plan for your property.
