To get your home ready for vacation, follow these seven tips: Set your water heater to its vacation setting to save energy when not in use. Clean out your refrigerator and check expiration dates; learn more on how to clean your refrigerator and keep it clean. Unplug small appliances, use timers on lamps to simulate occupancy, and inform trusted neighbors of your plans. Complete as much laundry as possible before leaving, prep for any visitors who might care for pets or plants, and clarify appliance usage instructions to prevent mishaps.
- Set your water heater to its vacation setting, if applicable.
Unless you have someone visiting the house and will need warm water while you’re gone, save energy by not leaving your water heater on its normal setting.
- Clean out your refrigerator.
Check expiration dates and toss out as needed.
Related post:
How to clean your refrigerator and keep it clean
- Unplug small appliances and electronics.
- Connect the lamps or other lighting you normally use in the evening hours to a timer.
This way, passersby won’t know you’re out of town. Be sure to inform a trusted neighbor or two about your vacation plans so that they will be more alert about any visitors to your home.
- Close blinds and curtains in sunny locations.
- Finish your laundry.
When you return from your trip, you’ll likely have several loads of laundry. Minimize the workload by making sure you get as much as laundry done as possible before your trip.
- Prep for any visiting family or friends.
If you’re having a family member or friend stop by to care for pets or plants, let your trusted neighbors know so they don’t fear they are intruders. If there’s a chance your visitors will use any of your appliances (microwave, dishwasher, dryer, washing machine), be sure explain how they work to avoid any costly mistakes. Remove spills inside of ranges and microwave ovens to prevent smoking.
Anything you’d add to this list? Please share in the comments below.
Have a great vacation!
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