As the holidays approach, many of us look forward to reuniting with family and friends for the holidays, exploring new places, or simply getting a break from everyday life. But before you lock up the house and head out the door, it’s important to ensure your home is ready for your absence. At Quigley Heating and Air Conditioning, we care about you and the comfort and safety of your whole home, not just your HVAC system. Here’s a comprehensive checklist to help you prepare your home for a worry-free holiday season.
1. Tidy Up and Clean
A clean home is a welcoming sight after a long trip, so take a few minutes to tidy up. Put away any clutter, dust surfaces, and vacuum high-traffic areas. Take the time to clean out your fridge and dispose of any perishable food that may spoil.
Be sure to run the garbage disposal and leave your dishwasher clean and empty. These simple steps will help reduce the risk of pests and ensure you don’t come home to a foul smell or mold.
2. Secure All Doors and Windows
Locking all your doors and windows is a fundamental step, but double-checking can bring added peace of mind. Intruders often look for easy entry points, so ensure every window and door is securely latched. If you have a security system, make sure the cameras are fully charged and it’s activated before you leave.
3. Arrange for Someone to Check In
Ask a friend, family member, or neighbor to occasionally check in on your home, especially if you’ll be gone for more than a few days. A quick walkthrough can help catch any issues, like leaks or strange noises, early on. If you have pets, arranging for a pet sitter can also be a good way to ensure someone is regularly visiting your home.
3. Pause Mail and Deliveries
An overflowing mailbox is a clear signal to potential burglars that no one’s home. Ask a friend or neighbor to pick up your mail and any packages or consider placing a hold on your mail with USPS. The same goes for any scheduled deliveries; reschedule or pause them if possible.
4. Set Your Thermostat
It’s important to set your thermostat at a temperature that will save on energy costs while ensuring your home stays safe from extreme temperatures. In colder months, set the thermostat to a lower temperature (around 55°F to 60°F) to prevent pipes from freezing. Many smart thermostats allow you to monitor and adjust temperatures remotely, providing extra peace of mind while you’re away. If you don’t already have one, consider having one installed before leaving. Our Quigley technicians carry a few models on their truck, so there’s no need to stress about buying the right kind, and installation is fast.
5. Adjust Water Heater and Shut Off Water Supply
Lowering your water heater’s temperature or switching it to “vacation mode” can help reduce energy waste. It may seem a bit extreme but for extra protection, especially during the winter, consider shutting off the main water supply to avoid potential leaks or burst pipes. History has proven that even Texas can experience below freezing temperatures that can cause major damage. If you can’t turn off the water supply and freezing temperatures are possible, turn on one faucet so that it drips slowly and leave the cabinet doors open where pipes are located. This will allow water to continually flow and warm air to circulate, which can prevent freezing.
6. Unplug Electronics and Appliances
Many devices continue to draw power even when they’re turned off, creating a drain on your energy bill. Unplugging electronics like TVs, computers, small kitchen appliances, and chargers not only saves on energy but also reduces the risk of electrical fires. For added security, you might want to consider using surge protectors on essential electronics, especially if there is a threat of severe weather and lightning.
7. Set Light Timers
Timed lights can give the illusion that someone is home, which can deter potential intruders. Schedule a few lights to turn on and off at various times throughout the day, particularly in main living areas and bedrooms. Many smart home systems can even be controlled remotely, allowing you to adjust lighting from afar as needed. You can find light timers at many different retail locations including local hardware stores.
8. Service Your HVAC System
When you are home, a properly functioning HVAC system is essential for maintaining your comfort. But when you are away, it is responsible for maintaining your home’s environment. Scheduling a maintenance check before you leave ensures your heating and cooling system won’t fail unexpectedly, leaving your home vulnerable to extreme temperatures. At Quigley Heating and Air Conditioning, our expert technicians can inspect your system, clean the filters, and identify any potential issues before they become major problems.
9. Double-Check Your Checklist Before You Leave
Finally, take one last walk through your home with this checklist in hand. Sometimes, it’s easy to overlook a step, especially when you’re busy preparing for a big trip. A quick walk-through will give you peace of mind knowing everything is in order.
10. Call Quigley – Leave Home with Confidence This Holiday Season
Preparing your home before a trip can make all the difference, not only for your peace of mind but also for the long-term safety of your home. At Quigley, we understand the importance of whole-home care and that’s why we encourage you to schedule 2 maintenance appointments each year.
If you can’t remember the last time you had your system checked or if it’s been more than 6 months, we strongly suggest scheduling a pre-holiday HVAC service appointment. Proper HVAC maintenance ensures that you won’t come back to any unpleasant surprises, like frozen pipes or an uncomfortable indoor climate.
Get ahead of any potential issues by following our checklist, or make your own. And make sure your HVAC system is operating optimally. Schedule your appointment with us today and enjoy your holiday with confidence, knowing your home is in good hands. Safe travels!
