Prepping Your Home for Vacation: Essential Security & Maintenance Checks Before You Go
Summer is in full swing, and for many, that means it's prime time for vacations! Whether you're heading to a cottage, out East, on a camping adventure, or exploring new cities, leaving your home empty for an extended period requires a little preparation.
As our communities in Eastern Ontario continue to grow and evolve, and technology changes, the way we approach home security and maintenance, especially when heading out for vacation, has shifted. What worked in the past might need an update today to ensure your peace of mind. It's not just about locking the doors; a few simple security and maintenance checks can protect your property, and even save you money while you're away.
Security First: Deterring Unwanted Visitors
No one wants to come home to an unpleasant surprise. Taking a few proactive steps can significantly reduce the risk of break-ins:
Lights & Presence: Make your home look occupied.
Light Timers: Use simple light timers or smart lighting systems to turn lights on and off in different rooms at varying times, mimicking your usual routine.
Smart Home Devices: If you have smart cameras or doorbell cameras, ensure they're operational and you can monitor them remotely.
Mail & Deliveries: An overflowing mailbox (or front step for Amazon deliveries!) is a clear sign that no one's home.
Hold Mail: Contact Canada Post to temporarily hold your mail.
Neighbour Help: Ask a trusted neighbour to pick up flyers, newspapers, and any packages left on your porch.
Don't Announce Your Absence: Resist the urge to post your vacation dates on social media until after you've returned.
Maintenance Matters: Protecting Your Home from Within
Beyond security, a few quick maintenance checks can prevent costly headaches while you're away:
Water Wise: A burst pipe or slow leak can cause significant damage.
Turn Off Main Water Valve (Optional, but Recommended for Extended Trips): If you're going away for more than a few days, consider turning off your home's main water supply. This is the ultimate protection against leaks. Remember to drain faucets if you do this.
Check Faucets & Toilets: Do a quick check for any drips or running toilets before you leave.
Thermostat Settings: Save energy and keep your home comfortable upon return.
Summer Settings: Set your thermostat a few degrees higher than normal (e.g., 26-28°C / 79-82°F) to save energy but still prevent extreme heat buildup and humidity issues. Avoid turning it completely off since this can lead to mold in humid climates.
Smart Thermostats: If you have one, you can often control it remotely to adjust settings closer to your return date.
Electronics Prep:
Unplug Unused Electronics: Unplug non-essential electronics to save "phantom load" energy and protect against power surges.
Smart Outlets: Use smart outlets that you can control remotely from your phone, allowing you to turn lights or small appliances on and off, making your home look occupied while you're away.
Enjoy Your Vacation with Peace of Mind!
Getting away should be relaxing, not a source of worry about your home. By taking a little time to prepare, you can significantly enhance your home's security and prevent potential issues.
How Your Local Handyman Service Can Help
Feeling overwhelmed by your pre-vacation checklist, or simply don't have the time? That's what we're here for! Your Local Handyman Service can assist with many of these crucial tasks, giving you more time to pack and relax:
Lock Installation & Repair: Upgrade your locks or fix sticky ones for enhanced security.
Smart Home Device Installation: We can install and set up smart outlets, lighting, thermostats, cameras, doorbell cameras, exterior locks, and other security devices.
Exterior Repairs: Address any loose siding, damaged fences, or other exterior issues that could compromise security or cause bigger problems while you're away.
General Home Check-Up: We can perform a general walk-through to identify potential issues and take care of small repairs before you leave.
Let us help you ensure your home is safe and sound, so you can fully enjoy your summer getaway.
Contact Your Local Handyman Service today for a free estimate on your pre-vacation home prep!
(613) 851-8828 | info@YourLocalHandymanService.com | www.YourLocalHandymanService.com
Proudly serving Brockville, Kemptville, Ottawa, ON and surrounding areas.
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