Taking the below steps can protect your home from theft, water damage, and heating or electrical system malfunctions while you are away for the winter!
- Keep the air circulating. Open kitchen and bathroom cabinet doors to allow warmer air to circulate around the plumbing. This will prevent frozen water pipes. Air movement and good ventilation are also excellent at removing moisture, which will prevent mold and mildew.
- When you are unplugging your refrigerator, leave the doors open and remove the water filter to prevent mildew. Be sure your freezer is completely defrosted to prevent water leaking onto the floor.
- Remove all perishable food items and anything else that may spoil while you are away.
Food items left over the winter may attract rodents and insects.
- Consider turning off your water at the main valve. Toilets, sinks, washing machines, ice makers and dishwashers are served with a water supply line that is responsible for the most water leaks. Drain toilets of water and keep faucets open to prevent pressure buildup.
- Keep your thermostat set at 55-60 degrees and keep the air flowing all winter. You may incur a higher heating bill, but you can prevent costly repair job if pipes freeze and burst. Reduce your risk for fire hazard by having a maintenance professional check the furnace portion of your HVAC to make sure it is functioning properly.
- Unplug all appliances to prevent fire hazards. Although this may be a little inconvenient, you could be saving your entire electrical system in the event that severe weather occurs while you’re away for the winter. Switch off the water heater at the circuit breaker.
- Perform routine cleaning before you leave. Cleaning your home thoroughly before leaving for the winter helps to discourage rodents and insects among many other advantages.
- Use a timer for a lamp in the kitchen or living room. This gives the illusion that someone is occupying your home and could deter theft. You can also ask a nearby neighbor or friend to keep an eye on your property.
You can never be too prepared when it comes to preventing the unexpected damages winter chill may bring.
Safety is always a concern around this time of year with Amazon packages and theft in vehicles.
Here are a few tips to help keep you and your family safe this holiday season:
- Make sure to keep your valuables away from visibility through windows to deter theft.
- Keep your home and surrounding area lit and make sure your outside lights are working and turned on.
- Keep your doors locked and secured at all times.
- If you plan on being away, consider asking a neighbor to keep a lookout for your packages or your home while you are on vacation.
- Consider installing security cameras so you can keep an eye on your home.
We hope you have a safe and enjoyable holiday season!!