Summer vacations provide a much-needed break from daily routines, but leaving your home unattended can be a source of anxiety. To help alleviate concerns and prevent potential issues while you’re away, it’s important to prepare your home properly. Here are essential steps to ensure your home remains safe and efficient during your absence.
Why Home Preparation is Crucial:
- Security: An unattended home can be a target for theft or vandalism. Proper preparation helps deter unwanted attention.
- Energy Conservation: Minimizing energy use while you’re away reduces utility bills and conserves resources.
- Maintenance and Safety: Addressing maintenance issues before leaving can prevent minor problems from becoming disasters.
Essential Pre-Vacation Home Prep Tips:
- Secure the Premises: Ensure all doors and windows are locked and secure. Use timers on lights to simulate an occupied appearance, and consider smart home systems that allow you to monitor your home remotely.
- Manage Your Utilities: Set your thermostat to an economical setting that prevents the environment inside your home from becoming too hot or humid, which can damage interiors. Turn off the main water supply to avoid leaks and water damage.
- Unplug Appliances: Disconnect all non-essential appliances and electronics to protect them from power surges and reduce energy consumption.
- Take Care of the Yard: Mow the lawn and trim the bushes before you leave. An unkempt yard can signal an empty home to potential intruders.
- Notify a Neighbour or Use a Home Watch Service: Inform a trusted neighbor or use a professional service to keep an eye on your property. They can alert you to any issues and help manage emergencies that might arise.
- Clean and Dispose of Perishables: Remove perishable items from your refrigerator to prevent spoilage and unpleasant odors. Take out the trash and recycling to keep pests at bay.
- Mail and Newspaper Delivery: Put your mail and newspaper delivery on hold or arrange for someone to pick them up daily. Piled up mail is a clear sign that the home is unoccupied.
Little Known Tip: Consider shutting down your home’s water heater if you’ll be away for an extended period. This not only saves energy but also prevents potential overheating.
Properly preparing your home for your absence can make your vacation more relaxing and welcome you back to a safe and well-maintained environment. With these steps, you can enjoy your getaway knowing your home is secure and energy-efficient.