Preparing your home for a holiday vacation involves more than just locking doors and turning off lights. Additional precautions are vital to ensure your property's safety and functionality while you're away, especially in regions with freezing temperatures. So before you pack your suitcase, check out these simple tips our home comfort specialists recommend to make your home holiday-vacation ready.
1. Protect your pipes from freezing.
As New England residents, we understand the perils of frigid temperatures. Ward off any plumbing problems by draining outdoor sprinklers or irrigation systems, insulating exposed pipes, and opening cabinets indoors to facilitate warm air circulation. If temperatures are predicted to plummet, allow a faucet to drip slowly to prevent your pipes from freezing.
2. Adjust your thermostat settings.
Optimize energy usage by adjusting your thermostat settings before leaving. Maintaining a moderate temperature above freezing will ensure your home remains comfortable for pets and plants without unnecessary energy consumption.
3. Activate your water heater’s vacation mode.
Yes, your hot water heater has a vacation mode! When utilized, it reduces energy consumption and prevents freezing pipes within the system while you’re away.
4. Check your sump pump and generator.
Ensure your sump pump is functional and plugged in. For those with whole-house backup generators, schedule annual maintenance to guarantee operational readiness.
5. Unplug appliances.
Save on utility bills by unplugging unnecessary small appliances and non-essential electronics during your absence. It can help save energy and minimize the risk of electrical issues.
6. Alert trusted neighbors.
Share your travel plans with trustworthy neighbors or friends, providing them with your emergency contact information. Request their assistance in keeping an eye on your property.
7. Create the illusion of an occupied home.
A dark home, snow-covered driveway, or an overflowing mailbox can signal an empty home to potential intruders. Set timers for your lights using smart plugs and bulbs. Make arrangements for the removal of accumulated snow. And finally, hold your mail, newspaper, and other deliveries. Utilize the USPS website to temporarily hold your mail delivery, or ask a reliable neighbor to collect your deliveries.
8. Consider a house sitter.
Hiring a house sitter is a great idea to help maintain the appearance of an occupied home, take care of pets, collect mail, and ensure the functioning of your home's plumbing and heating systems.
9. Remove household trash.
Empty trash cans and clean out perishables from the fridge to prevent odors and pests.
10. Call the professionals.
Of course, if you’re unsure about your home's readiness, we recommend consulting with our home comfort specialists. We can assess your HVAC and plumbing systems and offer guidance.
HVAC and Plumbing Installation, Maintenance, Service, and Repair
Taking these comprehensive steps will not only safeguard your home against potential risks but also ensure its functionality upon your return. If you need assistance with your heating and plumbing systems, don’t hesitate to contact us! We’re your local home comfort specialists, and we’re here to serve you.
Powered by Sprout