Heading To The Bach This Summer? Master Plumbers Shares Essential Safety Checks

With summer holidays just around the corner, Master Plumbers, Gasfitters & Drainlayers NZ has some simple but important tips to keep your holiday home safe and healthy.

Pump and filter first

As soon as you arrive, check the water pump is switching on and off as it should when a tap is turned on.

Private water supplies can contain all kinds of bacteria, including E.coli. If you’re the bach owner, make sure you change the filters, and UV light if you have it, at least once a year. A 0.5 micron filter is recommended.

Flush your taps

Run all taps and showerheads for at least two minutes when you arrive. Water that’s been sitting in pipes for weeks or months can harbour harmful bacteria, such as legionella, which causes Legionnaire’s disease.

"Legionella loves stagnant water," says Greg Wallace, CEO of Master Plumbers, Gasfitters & Drainlayers NZ. "By flushing the water before you drink or shower, you reduce the risk of drinking or inhaling water droplets that could contain these nasty bacteria."

Stagnant water can also contain dissolved lead from tapware and other plumbing components. That’s why flushing is extra important at holiday homes that aren’t used regularly.

"Master Plumbers has lobbied strongly for lead-free product regulations, and we’re very pleased the Government is taking action," Wallace adds. "From 1 May 2026, all new drinking water products installed in New Zealand properties must be lead-free."

Check your cylinder temperature

Legionella bacteria thrives in temperatures between 20° and 45°C. Hot water cylinders must store water at 60° or higher to kill it off.

Don’t be tempted to turn off the hot water cylinder while the bach is empty. As the water reheats, temperatures can linger in the ‘danger zone’, increasing risk.

When you arrive, check the cylinder thermostat to make sure it’s set to at least 60° before taking a shower.

If you’re the owner and your cylinder is nearing end of life, you might want to consider gas instantaneous water heater, which heats water on demand rather than storing it.

Give the gutters a once over

Clear gutters and spouting help keep water clean and flowing freely-which is especially important if the property relies on water collected from the roof.

"Check the gutters for dead birds, rodents and other debris before drinking from the tap," advises Wallace. "Contamination can make you very sick if the property has no water disinfection system in place."

Do the drill before you grill

A Kiwi summer isn’t complete without a BBQ, but before you fire up the barby, take a moment to run some essential safety checks.

"Gas is great for cooking-quick, precise and perfect for searing meat and veggies-but like any appliance, gas BBQs need to be kept clean and in safe working condition," says Wallace.

- Check the LPG cylinder: Ensure it has a current test date and is full-nothing worse than running out of gas!

- Inspect the hose: Look for cracks, kinks, brittleness or damage

- Clear the burners: remove debris, grease and blockages.

Next, tests for gas leaks. Mix water with a little liquid soap in a spray bottle or bucket.

With all the grill knobs off, slowly turn on the gas cylinder valve. Spray or brush the soapy water over the hose, valve and connections.

If bubbles appear, or you can smell gas, there’s a gas leak. Turn off the gas, tighten the connections and test again. Rinse with water once all is confirmed safe.

Finally, make sure the piezo igniter clicks and sparks. If not, turn off the gas before checking the wires for proper connection, replacing the battery (if applicable), and trying again. Never use a match or lighter while the gas is on full.

"If your BBQ is damaged, leaking or not working properly, don’t use it until it’s been serviced by an authorised gasfitter," advises Wallace.

Always grill in a safe, level and well-ventilated space away from trees, fences and the house-and keep a fire extinguisher in easy reach.

You’re all set for summer

"Getting away to the bach is a quintessentially Kiwi experience," concludes Wallace. "By taking these simple precautions, everyone can enjoy a safe and relaxing summer holiday."

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