It’s summer time and that means vacation! But don’t pack your bags and head off just yet. Leaving your Home Secure unattended for long periods of time can make it a target for burglary, vandalism, and other disasters.
Before you hit the road, take these preventive measures to protect your home so you can relax and enjoy your vacation and rest assured knowing your home is safe.
Don’t Announce Your Vacation on Social Media
When you share details of your upcoming or in-progress trip on social media, you’re announcing to the world that your house will be or is empty. Wait until you return home before sharing any highlights.
Secure Doors and Windows
Don’t forget to double check that all windows and exterior doors are locked. Leaving a single window or door unsecured is like rolling out the welcome mat for a would-be intruder. And don’t forget to remove and secure any spare keys you have stashed outside.
Ask Someone to Watch Your House
When planning an extended trip, plan for someone you trust to watch your house while you’re away. Ask them to water plants, bring in the mail, and check for any appliance or plumbing issues such as a malfunction or plumbing leak. Most importantly, make sure they know how to reach you in case of an emergency.
Adjust the Thermostat
Keeping your home at 68 degrees F or lower when you’re gone on a summer trip is like throwing away out the window. Adjust the thermostat to about 77 degrees F before leaving to save money on cooling bills. If your home is prone to excessive humidity, consider leaving a dehumidifier running, and have your designated helper periodically empty out the moisture it collects.
Don’t Let Your Home Appear Empty
Would-be thieves staking out a neighborhood look for signs of an empty house. An over-stuffed mailbox, newspapers in front of the house, and packages collecting at the front door signal that nobody is around. Have the postal service hold your mail, pause newspaper delivery, and ask your helper to take packages in for you. And don’t forget having them empty trash cans on garbage pickup day.
Lower the Water Heater Temperature
If you don’t have a house sitter, turn off the water at the main valve where it enters your house to prevent your plumbing from springing a spontaneous leak while you’re away. Also, lower the water heater thermostat to the lowest setting to prevent “stand-by” heat loss.
Unplug Electronics
Remember to turn off and unplug the computer, toaster, coffeemaker, game console, and other nonessential electronics before going away. If a power surge or thunderstorm strikes, sensitive electronics and appliances can suffer damage. Plus, unplugged electronics don’t use energy, so you’ll also save money on your utility bill.
Park in the Garage
If you have a garage, use it while on away. Leaving your car in the driveway or on the street can expose it to accidents and break-ins. Keep car keys in a secure spot in the house, such as a locking drawer, cabinet, or safe so they are secure but accessible should your house sitter need to move your car for any reason.
Don’t Overlook Garbage Disposal and Toilets
Clean your garbage disposal with vinegar and baking soda to remove foul odors and check that all toilets in the house have been flushed before leaving for an extended period of time. You don’t want to come back to kitchen odors, toilets in need of a deep cleaning, or worse – repairs.
At Messmer Mechanical, your comfort and safety is our top priority. Contact us today or any time for plumbing, heating, cooling, or water filtration need.