Bonjour lecteurs! Planning a family holiday involves more preparation than you think. In between the packing and all the legal bits, you also need to think about the house. Most families remember to lock their doors, take out the rubbish, and switch off unnecessary electrical appliances. But they often forget about the plumbing. If there is any problème in your absence, it can cause considerable damage. Here are a few things you should check before you leave.
Why Plumbing Deserves a Place on Your Holiday Checklist
Most plumbing systems operate quietly in the background. They are very convenient, but we easily forget about them.
If you were at home, you would notice any issue straightaway. Par exemple, you would notice a dripping tap when you wash your hands. Or you would spot a leak very quickly. But if left for several days or weeks, those early warning signs can go unnoticed.
Even a relatively small leak can become serious when water accumulates over a long period. Wooden flooring may swell, plasterboard can absorb moisture, and damp conditions can encourage mould growth. That’s why you need to be préparé.
Start With the Main Water Shut-Off Valve
When we go on holidays, we always turn off the property’s main water shut-off valve. It controls the incoming water supply to the home. Do you know where yours is? It’s often under the sink.
This way, you can reduce the risk of water escaping from a failed supply pipe or fixture connection.
But be careful because certain heating systems require an uninterrupted water supply. You could actually cause further problems. Check with a professionnel if you are unsure.
Turning off the main supply does not remove water already present in pipes, storage tanks, or appliances.
Inspect the Washing Machine Connections
The washing machine is one of the most important appliances in a busy family home.
Washing machines typically connect to the household water supply through flexible hoses. Over time, these connections may deteriorate, loosen, or develop small leaks. It’s worth checking them before you leave the house.
Before leaving for a holiday, homeowners can inspect the accessible areas around their washing machine for moisture, staining, or unusual signs of wear.
Don’t Forget the Dishwasher
You should also inspect the dishwasher. Very often, its supply lines and drainage connections are largely hidden from view.
A minor leak may continue unnoticed until water reaches the surrounding cabinets or flooring. You don’t want it to go crazy just as you are away.
Look for unexplained dampness near the bottom of adjoining cabinets, changes in flooring, or moisture beneath the kitchen sink where connections may be visible.
If the dishwasher has a dedicated shut-off valve, follow the appliance manufacturer’s guidance before operating it.
Check Beneath Every Frequently Used Sink
The cabinets beneath kitchen and bathroom sinks can reveal plumbing problems long before they become obvious elsewhere.
These spaces contain supply connections, drainage pipes, seals, and fittings that may loosen or deteriorate with use.
Before leaving, inspect those spaces and look for signs such as:
- Moisture around pipe connections.
- Water marks on cabinet surfaces.
- Swelling or discolouration of wooden panels.
- Persistent damp or musty odours.
- Corrosion around accessible fittings.
You want to spot any issues before you are gone.
Pay Attention to Toilets That Keep Running
A toilet that continues running after flushing may seem like a minor household annoyance. However, it can waste substantial amounts of water over time.
You need to get this looked into before you go anywhere.
Although a running toilet doesn’t necessarily cause flooding, you want to avoid bad surprises on your next water bill!
Consider What Happens to Your Water Heater
Water heaters operate differently depending on their design, energy source, and installation. Some households have traditional storage-tank systems, while others use tankless equipment that heats water as needed.
Before a holiday, homeowners may wonder whether switching off their water heater is worthwhile. It depends on your property and système.
Some water heaters offer a dedicated holiday or vacation setting, so that you consume less energy when you are away.
Other systems are connected to heating equipment or particular plumbing configurations. The safest approach is to follow the manufacturer’s instructions.
Avoid shutting down, draining, or altering water-heating equipment without understanding the proper procedure.
When a Professional Plumbing Check Makes Sense
You might think it’s easy to do all those checks yourself before you go away. But certain properties need more care.
Be extra careful if your plumbing system is older or if you have recurring leaks. If that’s the case, you would benefit from arranging a plumbing system assessment before leaving for an extended period.
A qualified professional can examine accessible components, identify signs of deterioration, and recommend appropriate repairs or maintenance.
Think About Who Will Check the House While You’re Away
For longer holidays, I would also arrange for a trusted person to check the home periodically.
This might be a family member, a neighbour… Show them where the main water shut-off valve is located just in case.
I would also check my insurance policy for any conditions involving extended absences. Some policies include specific requirements in relation to heating or water supplies when a property is unoccupied.
Don’t Overlook Outdoor Water Connections
Outdoor taps and water supply connections are easy to forget, especially when you are on the go.
Before travelling, inspect accessible outdoor connections for visible leaks or damaged fittings. Disconnect garden hoses where appropriate and follow the manufacturer’s instructions for any automatic irrigation system.
Make a Simple Family Departure Routine
Checking luggage, passports, travel reservations, and electronic devices… It’s all part of the holiday routine.
Here is a short plumbing checklist to add before departure:
- Locate the main water shut-off valve and decide whether you should turn it off.
- Inspect accessible washing machine and dishwasher connections.
- Check beneath kitchen and bathroom sinks for moisture.
- Listen for toilets that continue running after flushing.
- Follow the water heater manufacturer’s holiday guidance.
- Examine accessible outdoor water connections.
- Arrange for someone to check your property.
Peace of Mind Starts Before You Leave
A family holiday should be an opportunité to relax, spend time together, and enjoy a change of scenery. Nobody wants to spend the journey home worrying about whether a pipe has leaked or an appliance connection has failed.
Fortunately, most basic plumbing precautions are straightforward. These steps won’t eliminate every possible plumbing emergency, but they can reduce avoidable risks and help homeowners recognize problems before they become serious.
It only takes a few minutes, and it can make such a différence!
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