It’s estimated that 47% of Americans will celebrate the holidays somewhere other than their home this season. If you’re traveling for the holidays, don’t neglect to prepare your home for your absence. With a few simple steps, you can save money and energy while keeping your home safe and secure during your absence.
Below are a few tips and tricks to help keep your home safe and prepare it for severe Colorado weather and emergency situations while you’re away.
Disconnect Appliances
Every appliance that you leave plugged in continues to drain power from your outlets and costs you money. From microwaves to TVs, take 5 minutes to unplug anything that isn’t crucial to keeping your home warm or safe. You also protect these electronics from potential power surges if a storm hits or your power goes out.
Arrange Snow Removal
Snow comes and goes quickly in our neck of the woods. Most cities and counties in Colorado require you to remove snow within 24 hours. Make sure you have a snow removal service, friend, or neighbor lined up to clear your walk when snow falls. Avoid expensive fines and that you keep your property safe the entire time you’re gone. A clear sidewalk also gives thieves the impression that someone is home.
Turn of Your Water Supply
Don’t come home to a flooded house. Turn your water supply off at the main valve and open several faucets to let the remaining water empty out of your pipes. If any issue arises with your heat, you won’t suffer frozen or burst pipes and the mess they might cause.
Set Your Water Heater to “Vacation”
Your water heater uses a lot of energy to keep its tank hot but you won’t be needing that toasty shower while you’re gone. Find the vacation or pilot setting on your water heater and dial it in to save energy and hot water until you need it.
Leave a Light On
A few well placed lights can give the impression someone is around and deter thieves. Don’t forget to flip a switch or two or set a timer. Exterior motion lights are also great for home security.
Check Your Smoke Detectors
Before a trip is a perfect time to check your smoke detectors. Prevent the low battery warning from beeping endlessly while you’re gone and ensure that your home is safe when you return.
Getting ready for a trip always takes time. Don’t forget to add these tips to your to-do list before you go. Preparing your home for winter travel can save you a lot of money and headache in the long run. For additional help with plumbing, heating or electrical issues before you hit the road, contact Applewood. We’re here 24/7 to make sure your home is always running the way you want.
Adjust Your Thermostat
Save money and energy by setting your thermostat to 55 degrees. This will keep your home warm enough to avoid any catastrophe but will save you your normal heating costs. If you’re worried about pipes not getting enough warm air, leave cabinet doors under sinks open. A new thermostat that is programmable from your phone allows you to warm things back up just before you get home.
Recruit A Friend
Having a friend, family member or neighbor check on your home, especially during extended trips, is a good practice. Leave a key with them so that they can check on things and gain access in an emergency.
Prepare your Home for Travel
Getting ready for a trip always takes time. Don’t forget to add these tips to your to-do list before you go. Preparing your home for winter travel can save you a lot of money and headache in the long run. For additional help with plumbing, heating or electrical issues before you hit the road, contact Applewood. We’re here 24/7 to make sure your home is always running the way you want.
