8 Things To Do Before Vacation

No one wants to come home after a great trip to find a burglary had occurred, or a broken pipe has flooded the house, or really any other disaster, right?
So, let's talk about ways to prepare.

Tip One - Make It Seem Like You're Still Home

Set timers for indoor, and even outdoor, lights. Lights going on and off can make it seem like you're still at home. Make sure to move any valuables that are visible from the outside, just in case. Close your drapes so no one can see inside. If you have an outdoor key, bring that in.

Tip Two - Clean Out Your Refrigerator

Remove any foods that will spoil while you're gone. You don't want to come home to a lot of spoiled food, yuck!

Tip Three - Clean The House

Remove the trash, especially if you've just filled your trash can with all the perishables from your refrigerator. You don't want that smell when you come home! Wipe down the kitchen counters to make sure there's no crumbs, or sticky spots, so there's nothing to attract bugs while you're gone.

Tip 4 - Take Care Of The Mail

Stop your mail or ask a reliable neighbor to pick it up for you. Nothing says "nobody is home" like an overflowing mailbox!

Tip 5 -Turn Off The Water To Your House

Locate the main water shut up valve and turn it off just before you leave. Let the sinks run until they're dry. This will ensure no water is left in the pipes, so if something breaks, no flooding!

Tip Six - Unplug Your Household Appliances

A big electrical storm can cause power outages. These can impact and damage appliances, including your computer and your television. Right before you leave, go around your house and unplug anything that doesn't need to be on. Leave on the lamps that have the timers though you want those going on and off.

Tip Seven - Set Your Water Heater To Vacation Mode

No need to maintain hot water when nobody is home to use it.

Tip Eight - Adjust your thermostat

It should be closer to the outside temperature. This will help you save money on unnecessary energy costs, but it can also help you to avoid any unforeseen problems with your HVAC equipment.


Now that your home is as protected as possible, you can go on your vacation and enjoy. If you're thinking about selling your home, check out this playlist. If you found this video/blog helpful, please like, comment, share and subscribe so you don't miss any of my tips and tricks on living in Fairfax County. Hit the little bell icon, so you get notified every time I post. I post every Monday, so see you back here next week.

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