If you are hosting friends and family from out of town this summer – you are probably getting your home ready for their visit.

Stocking the pantry, cleaning the guest bedroom, and filling the swimming pool are all top tasks that need to get done when hosting overnight guests this summer.

But, in addition to all of those tasks, you should also be thinking about making sure that your plumbing system is ready.

Make sure that your home and plumbing system are up to the task by following these simple steps for getting things ready:

• Check your washing machine gasket. The gasket is essential to water-efficiency and if your hoses are leaking, you could have a big problem with mold, mildew, and water damage in the coming days.
• Have your water heater inspected by a professional plumber – especially if it is an older unit. You definitely don’t want a water heater malfunction during a visit from your out of town guests.
• Check the cupboards under all of your sinks to make sure there aren’t any leaks. Use a flashlight to make sure there isn’t even the smallest drip.
• Walk around the perimeter of your home and inspect all of the hose bibs and the sprinkler heads. With the hot temperatures of the summer, it is likely that your guests will want to stay cool and there’s no better way than setting up a water feature in your backyard or even kicking on the sprinkler system.

When your guests arrive this summer, help them to feel at home by having a properly working plumbing system. Make sure the hot water is in top condition and nothing is leaking or causing any kind of concern. Your visits are few and far between with your busy schedule – keep the time together full of making great memories rather than cleaning up plumbing disasters!