Home Preparations Experts Suggest Before Departing for Vacation - Neglected by Most
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In the run-up to your holiday, it's essential to prepare your home to ensure a hassle-free return. Ian Palmer-Smith, Service Delivery Director at Domestic & General, shares his expert advice on how to protect your appliances, save energy, and avoid potential problems.
Firstly, Ian advises homeowners to switch off everyday appliances before leaving for their holiday. By doing so, you reduce unnecessary energy consumption and lower the risk of electrical hazards. Examples of appliances to switch off include dishwashers, washing machines, tumble dryers, TVs, and microwaves.
Leaving dishwasher and washing machine doors open after use is another useful tip to prevent musty odors and mold growth. Mould thrives in high humidity and moisture areas, such as kitchen appliances. Allowing air circulation inside these damp appliances helps prevent mould from developing.
Another vital aspect of preparing your home for a holiday is cleaning your kitchen appliances before you go. Cleaning a washing machine and dishwasher is recommended to prevent mould and bacterial build-up. Additionally, cleaning the dishwasher's filter before leaving on holiday is advised to prevent blockages and potential repair needs. Leaving food particles in the dishwasher while on holiday can block up the filter, potentially requiring professional repair upon return.
To further save energy and reduce the chance of home maintenance issues during your absence, consider using energy-saving or vacation modes on appliances like refrigerators. Avoid putting hot food directly in the fridge before departure to preserve efficiency. Never completely turn off your heating or cooling system during vacation but adjust the thermostat settings to conserve energy and avoid mold or frozen pipes. For instance, setting the summer thermostat around 80-85°F can help maintain a comfortable temperature while saving energy.
Finally, turning off the water supply before leaving for more than a few days can protect your home from potential water leaks and bursts. The stopcock, usually located under the sink, is used to turn off the water supply. This action is not only to protect your home but also to save energy.
Ian Palmer-Smith, with over 35 years of professional experience in the field, emphasizes the importance of these practices. By following these tips, you can protect your appliances from damage, improve energy efficiency, and reduce the chance of home maintenance issues during your absence. Enjoy your holiday with peace of mind, knowing that your home is well-prepared for your return.
- Incorporate energy-saving measures in your home wellness by using energy-saving modes on appliances like refrigerators before leaving for vacation.
- To maintain a balanced lifestyle, leave dishwasher and washing machine doors open after use to prevent musty odors and mold growth in the home-and-garden area.
- Enhance your home's beauty by cleaning kitchen appliances before going on holiday, including the dishwasher's filter, to prevent mould and bacterial build-up.
- Engage in responsible home finance by turning off the water supply before leaving for extended periods to protect your home from potential water leaks and bursts.
