It is finally time to leave for your summer vacation. Your bags are packed, the hotels are booked, and you’re making a few final arrangements to ensure the trip goes off without a hitch. Preparing your home while you are away should be part of your vacation checklist. This way, you can enjoy yourself without worry. From setting utilities to avoid the need for major HVAC repairs to leaving on a few lights, below are five important steps to take before you embark on a vacation.

How to Prepare Your Home While You’re Away

1. Set the Thermostat

Don’t waste energy while you’re away. Set the thermostat to about 82-degrees Fahrenheit so the air conditioner doesn’t kick on unnecessarily. Running your HVAC while away will only make you pay more in utilities when you aren’t home to enjoy them. Avoid turning it off completely, however, since this will make your home too hot and will force your system to work overtime to cool it down when you return. This extra wear and tear can lead to a need for HVAC repairs earlier than you normally would need them. 

2. Test the Sump Pump        

Make sure your sump pump is in working order before leaving for an extended period. Dump a bucket of water into the pit to ensure the system turns on to remove the excess water. If the water doesn’t move and your sump pump doesn’t engage, call a plumber for repairs to avoid a flood while you are away.

3. Turn on Lights

A dark house is an easy target for criminals. Make sure porch lights and other security fixtures are set to turn on when the sun goes down. You can also have other lights automated to turn on periodically so it seems as if someone is on the premises to deter thieves.

4. Shut Off the Water

If you are going to be away for a long time, turn off the main water valve to your home. This will stop water from flowing into your property and lowers the risk of a leak or flood. You can have peace of mind that a plumbing emergency won’t happen and you enjoy your vacation even more.

5. Prep Toilets

After a while, bacteria in toilets will leave unsightly stains in the basin. Pour about half a cup of bleach into each commode to prevent excess bacteria growth and tough toilet rings from forming while you are gone.

Parker Solutions is Elko, NV’s HVAC contractor when they need heating and cooling services as well as air duct cleaning. Whether you need HVAC repair or services for your gas or wood stove, their professional technicians are licensed and insured to keep your home comfortable all year long. For air conditioner and heating system repair call (775) 738-4681. Or, visit them online for more on their HVAC repair options.