Posted on June 27th, 2024.

Welcome to our article on preparing your home for a stress-free summer vacation! As we all know, the anticipation of traveling can often take over, causing us to overlook some important steps in getting our homes ready before we leave. But fear not, because we've got you covered. Keep reading for our top tips on ensuring your home is safe and well-maintained while you're off enjoying some much-needed relaxation. 

Preparing Your Home for a Stress-Free Summer Vacation! 

Bolster Your Home's Security 

One essential step to bolster your home's security as you prepare home for vacation is to install timers on lights. This cost-effective measure makes it look like someone is home by automatically turning on and off lights at different times of the day. It's wise to use these timers on various lights throughout your home, such as the living room, kitchen, and even the front porch. Doing so creates the illusion of normal activity, which can considerably dissuade potential intruders. Alongside timers, ensure all locks, including on windows and doors, are secure. It might be time to upgrade to deadbolt locks or electronic smart locks, which offer enhanced security features like remote locking and unlocking via your smartphone. 

Beyond enhancing lock security, setting up a security system is a crucial layer of protection. Many modern systems can be integrated with your smartphone, allowing you to monitor your home remotely. Consider motion sensor lights around your property's perimeter, which can startle and deter anyone attempting to approach your home unnoticed. Also, don’t forget to notify a trusted neighbor about your absence, asking them to keep an eye on your property. They can help by collecting mail or packages, ensuring they don’t pile up and signal that no one is home. Additionally, asking them to park a car in your driveway occasionally can add to the effect of someone being present. Follow these tips to ensure your home doesn't appear vacant during your summer vacation. 

Essential Home Maintenance Before You Go 

Another crucial aspect of home maintenance before you go on vacation is ensuring your home is in tip-top shape to avoid any unwelcome surprises on your return. Start by inspecting and cleaning your gutters. During the summer, clogged gutters can lead to water overflow, which may cause damage to your home's foundation or create a hospitable environment for pests. Take the time to clear out any debris and ensure water flows freely through the downspouts. 

Next, diligently check for any leaks around your home. Examine under sinks, around toilets, and in areas prone to moisture like basements and laundry rooms. Addressing small leaks now can prevent substantial water damage and mold growth while you're away. 

It's also a good idea to service your HVAC system before heading out. Have a professional technician inspect the unit, clean the filters, and ensure it's running efficiently. This not only extends the life of your system but also helps maintain a consistent climate in your home, which is especially important if you plan to be away for an extended period. One often overlooked area is the state of your appliances. Make sure all your appliances are in good working order. Unplug non-essential devices to save on energy and reduce fire risk. If you’re leaving a fridge or freezer running, consider filling it up with bottles of water to help it maintain a steady temperature more efficiently. 

Another thing to include in your vacation home maintenance checklist is ensuring that outside areas are ready for your absence. Trim any overgrown trees or bushes that could potentially damage your home during a storm. Secure outdoor furniture and remove any items that could be tossed around by high winds. It's also wise to double-check that all exterior lighting is functional, as this can deter potential break-ins. A well-lit exterior suggests that someone is home. This brings us to checking the security of all doors and windows, confirming that all are locked and in good repair. 

For added peace of mind, consider installing window locks or security bars, especially on basement or ground floor windows. Test your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors to ensure they're working correctly, and replace any batteries if needed. Another often overlooked task is arranging for your lawn to be maintained if you’ll be gone for a while, as an unkept yard is a telltale sign of an empty home. By following this home maintenance checklist, you can relax on your summer vacation, knowing your home is well-prepared and secure. 

Managing Utilities for Efficiency and Safety 

Managing utilities for efficiency and safety is an important aspect of proper property management when preparing for a summer vacation. A good starting point is to install programmable thermostats. This useful tool allows you to set your HVAC system to run less frequently while you're away, reducing energy consumption and lowering your utility bill. You can program the thermostat to maintain a higher temperature during the day and a cooler one just before you arrive back home, ensuring comfort as soon as you step in. Unplugging non-essential electronics is another essential task. Devices like toasters, coffee makers, and entertainment systems can draw power even when turned off. This phantom energy can account for around 10% of your home's energy use. By unplugging these items, you're not only conserving electricity but also reducing the risk of electrical fires. Additionally, unplugging surge protectors that aren't supporting crucial appliances can further contribute to energy savings and safety. 

Turn off water valves to avoid potential leaks or bursts while you're away. It's recommended to locate and shut off the main water valve, typically found near the perimeter of your home where the water supply enters. For those who prefer not to turn off the entire water supply, consider shutting off individual valves to critical areas such as sinks, toilets, and washing machines. This significantly reduces the chance of returning to a water-damaged property. Before you leave, it's worth draining and insulating any exposed plumbing to prevent issues caused by temperature fluctuations. Moreover, consider installing a water leak detection system, which can alert you to leaks even while you’re away. Another step is to secure outdoor hoses and ensure no water is left running. Additionally, setting up a simple routine to test and turn off outdoor faucets can help you avoid drips and leaks that might otherwise go unnoticed until damage has already occurred. Pairing these steps with timed lawn sprinklers ensures your garden remains healthy without the risk of overwatering or leaks. By managing your home’s utilities effectively, you create not just energy efficiency but peace of mind, knowing that your property is protected from preventable issues. Following these guidelines will help ensure that you can truly relax and enjoy your summer vacation, knowing your home is in capable hands. 

Prepare Your Outdoor Space 

Prepare your outdoor space by following our handyman guide to ensure everything remains secure, tidy, and well-maintained during your absence. Start with your patio furniture. Strong winds or sudden storms can turn unsecured furniture into projectiles, causing damage to your property or your neighbor’s. Either move your furniture indoors or securely tie it down using heavy-duty straps or bungee cords. It’s essential to trim trees and hedges around your property as well. Not only do overgrown trees and bushes present a hazard during storms, but they can also hide potential intruders. Trim back any branches that are close to your home or power lines and prune hedges to ensure clear visibility. Keeping your lawn mowing routine uninterrupted while you’re away is also essential. An overgrown lawn is a dead giveaway that no one is home. If you plan to be gone for an extended period, arrange for a lawn service or a neighbor to take over mowing duties. Shedding some attention on your garden beds and potted plants is equally important. Add a fresh layer of mulch to retain moisture and discourage weeds, and consider installing a drip irrigation system to keep plants hydrated without overflow. 

Ensuring your pool maintenance is up-to-date is another crucial part of the handyman guide. Before leaving, clean the pool thoroughly, check the chemical levels, and make any necessary adjustments. If you have a pool service, inform them of your absence and ensure they're scheduled to maintain the pool regularly. Secure pool equipment and cover the pool to reduce debris accumulation while you're away. Additionally, check that exterior lighting around your property is functioning correctly. Well-placed lighting not only enhances the aesthetic but also provides added security. Replace any burned-out bulbs and consider adding solar-powered lights as a cost-effective solution. It’s a good idea to walk around the exterior of your home to ensure everything is in order. Check for any repairs that might be needed, such as loose siding or cracked windows, and address these issues before you leave. If you have a security system, ensure that outdoor cameras are properly positioned and working efficiently. By meticulously following these handyman tips for preparing your outdoor space, you can leave your home knowing it's well-maintained and secure, allowing you to enjoy your summer vacation without worries. 

Reach out for expert help 

Taking these meticulous steps ensures your home remains protected and in excellent condition, allowing peace of mind while you're away. If you find yourself overwhelmed or in need of professional assistance, don't hesitate to contact us at Erik's Helping Hands. From security enhancements to routine maintenance, our range of services covers all your handyman needs. Give us a contact us at [email protected] to schedule an appointment today. Enjoy your summer getaway, knowing your home is in good hands.