Summertime is vacation time for many of us – a chance to take a well-deserved break and enjoy the warm weather with friends or loved ones. Before you start packing your bags for a sunny getaway, spend a little time preparing your property for your absence. Here are some useful things to do in and around your home before you head out on your vacation.
Install smart security. Treat yourself to a peace of mind by installing a smart home security system. It can be controlled remotely using your phone or computer, allowing you to lock or unlock doors and windows from anywhere with a single click or tap. These systems often feature extra perks such as video footage and access logs, enhancing your property’s safety.
Unplug and turn off your appliances. Reduce the risk of electrical fire and save energy by unplugging non-essential electronics and appliances such as your stove, oven and coffee maker before you leave.
Turn off the water supply. Shut off the main water supply or individual water valves to prevent the risk of any leaks or floods while you’re away.
Adjust your thermostat. Set your thermostat to a temperature that will prevent heat and humidity buildup in your home but won’t waste energy (and money) while you’re gone; somewhere between 80 to 85 degrees is a standard number. Smart home technology comes in handy here; you can control your thermostat remotely and tweak it as needed.
Pause mail and deliveries. Don’t let a pile of mail or packages accumulate on your doorstep while you’re away. Request a hold on your mail at the post office or ask a neighbor to collect it for you. Remember to pause newspaper or grocery deliveries as well.
Clean up your yard. If you’re going to be gone for an extended period of time, consider hiring someone to mow your lawn in your absence. Not only will your neighbors appreciate your dedication to keeping the block tidy, but your home will also look more occupied, warding off potential intruders.
Leave a light on. Consider setting a timer on one of the lights in your house; program it to be on during the evening, which gives the impression of someone being home (and wards off potential burglars). Again, technology makes this easy; if your home is equipped with smart lighting, you can set lights to be turned on or off according to your desired schedule.
Give someone your contact info. Let a neighbor, friend or family member know about your vacation plans; if possible, ask them to keep an eye on your house and provide them with your contact information in case they need to reach you.
With a little advanced planning, you can enjoy your summer vacation and feel good knowing that your home is safe and sound while you’re away.
