Top 10 plumbing priorities before you go on holiday

Turn off the water supply

This seems obvious, but you would be surprised at how many homeowners forget to turn off their water supply before going away. Turning off your water supply could lower the risk of any potential accidents happening whilst you are gone. These accidents could be minor such as a leaking tap, or significant, like a burst pipe. 

Check your external pipes

Don’t forget about your external pipes before you jet off somewhere sunny. These pipes face the elements all year round, so, understandably, they need to be checked periodically to ensure there are no leaks or cracks. It’s also worth ensuring that there are no trees or tree roots near or next to your pipes as this could cause an accident whilst you are away. 

Check all your fixtures and appliances

Leaky taps, cracked basins and dysfunctional washing machines are not things you want to leave until you return from your holiday. Take some time (about a week before you leave) to check all your fixtures for leaks and cracks, ensure they are tightly closed, and there is no water where it shouldn’t be. 

Empty your washing machine, tumble dryer and dishwasher of any excess water (if your appliance stores water) and wash them through to prevent any nasty smells from escaping when you are not there. 

Boiler care – what to do with your boiler 

Depending on the type of boiler you have and when you are going away on holiday will all be factored in what you do with your boiler. Some homeowners decide that they don’t want to leave their boiler on, whether for cost reasons or because they don’t feel comfortable leaving it on, so they turn it off. Others choose to turn down the thermostat and leave the boiler running at a lower temperature. 

There is also an option to set a timer on your boiler, so it only comes on at certain times of the day. We would advise that if you are going away during the winter months and it’s likely to be cold, don’t turn your boiler off as this could affect your pipes if there is no heat going through your home. 

Clean out those gutters 

Ensure you check your guttering for any fallen debris that may have built up since your last clear out. Your gutters help clear rainwater from your roof and foundations, so they must remain transparent, particularly when you are away enjoying your holiday. 

Clean drains

Our drains are used to water running through them, and when you are away on holiday, this naturally stops. Check your drains for any clogs and gunk that may have built up, so this doesn’t become one of your plumbing priorities when you return home!

Get a friend to check your home whilst you’re gone

Having a friend check in on your home is essential for various reasons whilst you are away. Not only does this keep your home safe and shows that someone is going in and out, but they can also spot any issues with your plumbing when you aren’t there and call a plumber quickly.

Turn off your appliances

For extended protection of your home whilst you aren’t there, turn off your appliances to reduce the risk of any water leaks or burst pipes. Washing machines, dishwashers and tumble dryers don’t need to be left on whilst you’re away, and you could be saving money on your electricity bill by turning them off! 

Organise for a professional plumbing check 

Consider booking an appointment with a professional plumbing team like Three Counties Plumbing and Heating so you can go away with the confidence that your plumbing is in complete working order and you won’t come home to a disaster. 

Check and clean your internal drainage. 

Ever come home and wondered what that awful smell was? It could be coming from your internal drainage system! Ensure you clean through your sinks and plug holes before you go with a specialised unblocker solution to prevent nasty smells from making their way around your home.