Going On Vacation? Do These 7 Things First

Whether you are heading to the lake for the summer or going up to your mountain cabin for Christmas break, it is important that you secure your home before you leave so that you don’t have to worry about coming home to a flooded basement.

1. Turn Off the Primary Water Supply

A leak or water break could be disastrous if there was no one at home when it happened. So, don’t run the risk of serious water damage while you are on vacation; simply shut off the primary water supply.

2. Adjust the Thermostat

You can save a significant amount of money while you are away from home by adjusting your thermostat, but you must do it correctly. Prior to leaving for your trip, increase the thermostat setting by four degrees. For instance, if your normal temperature setting is 72 degrees, you will want to raise it to 76 degrees while you are out of the home. During the winter, you’ll turn it down four degrees.

Don’t turn the air off completely during the summer or the heat off completely during the winter. This will have an opposite effect of what you are trying to achieve when you return home and try to get the temperature back to normal. Plus, humidity levels will get out of control. So, keep the air circulating while you are away.

3. Unplug Electronics

Any power strips and small electronics should be unplugged while you are gone. The same goes for all appliances and anything that generates heat. If you have items that are set on timers, such as coffee makers, then unplug them as well.

4. Install Smart Technology

Nothing offers more peace of mind than a direct view of your entire home. Install smart technology can give you exactly that. You can receive live updates on your phone no matter where you are.

5. Clean Your Garbage Disposal

It isn’t uncommon to forget to clean the garbage disposal on a regular basis, but if you plan to be out of town for a little while, leftover food can invite bugs, ants, and even mold into the home. An easy way to clean the garbage disposal is with a lemon. Cut it half, and add each half one at a time with the water and disposal both running. Give the disposal time to grind it thoroughly before turning it and the water off.

6. Adjust the Water Heater

One way to save money while you are out of town is to put your water heat on vacation mode. If your water heater does not have this setting, then simply turn it down 10 degrees.

7. Check the Sump Pump

Your sump pump is beneficial in the event of a significant rainfall or storm. So, make sure that it is in proper working order before you leave, as it can help make sure your basement doesn’t flood and cause significant water damage inside the home while you are away.

For more information, contact the professionals at Air Degree.