Vacation is a time to escape the hassles, stress and overall pressure of everyday life. Before you take off for that warm beach, however, there are some things that need to be done. In order to avoid any worrying or stress during your long trip, it is important to make sure everything is in order at home before leaving. Here is a handy pre-vacation home checklist to help with that process.
Handle the mail
You can either call the post-office or go online and have your mail held, or simply ask a neighbor to collect the mail while you’re away. Either way, don’t let the mail pile up for no reason.
Place your lighting on a timer
It’s a good idea to put a few lights on a timer. This will make it appear as if someone is home all of the time.
Move your vehicles
Place your car inside the garage to keep it safe from any weather or security threats.
Adjust your heating and A/C systems
If you’re traveling in the summer, adjust the A/C to roughly 10 degrees below the average outside temperature. This keeps your appliances from having to work too hard. For vacations during the wintertime, put your heating at 55 degrees to avoid freezing pipes.
Unplug your electronics
Unplug all of the smaller electronics throughout the house to help save power. Items such as computers, modems, televisions, routers, radios, cable boxes, toasters, phones, microwaves and alarm clocks can burn energy unnecessarily when not in use.
Shut off the water
If possible, find and turn off the main water line to the house. This can help prevent any major leaks from larger appliances.
Take out the trash
Empty all of the trash bags from the house. There’s no reason to come back after vacation to a smelly home.
Check the security systems
There are specialized home security systems that use advanced technology to protect homes. These systems are a great way to keep tabs on the house while on vacation and make sure that no invaders are successful.
Lock your windows
Scan the house to make sure all of the windows are shut and securely locked. This may seem obvious, but some people accidentally leave their windows unlocked while on vacation.
Take care of your bills
Make sure to pay any bills that are due while you’re away. You don’t want your credit to take a hit for missing a bill.
Correspond with the alarm company
If you have an alarm system, it is important to let the company know about your vacation. This information can aid them if any response is required.
Water the plants
Most plants can’t go without water for more than a few days. If you have any friends or family members with spare time, ask if they would mind watering your plants.
Arrange for snow removal or lawn care
An unshoveled driveway and overgrown lawns are welcome signs for burglars. You should arrange for lawn maintenance or snow removal depending on the season.
Clean your kitchen
Kitchens can begin to smell after a few days if not cleaned thoroughly. Wash all the dirty towels, dish rags and washcloths. Pour some vinegar down the garbage disposal to prevent any unwanted smells from brewing.
Don’t forget trash day
Ask a trusted neighbor to take your trash out on the appropriate day. There’s no reason not to take advantage of this service even while on a long vacation.
Many robbers and other criminals will target homes when the inhabitants are on vacation. The key is to always make it appear as though someone is home. This pre-vacation home checklist can help you rest assured on vacation that everything is fine at home.