Catherine Schaeffer, DanSco Realty Group
We hope you had a wonderful season in sunny SunBird this year! There were so many activities and events that create memories you can cherish until you return!
Leaving your home for an extended period of time can be unnerving, especially if you do not have anyone checking in on it during your absence. But even if you do, there are some tips I would love to share with you before you leave.
1. Turn off the water at the main. You’re just one unexpected plumbing leak away from getting that dreaded phone call, “Water is running out of your front door/garage.” When you’re local, you’re able to take action and avoid damage. However, when you’re away, a plumbing leak can really wreak havoc on your home.
• Locate the main water shut-off valve and turn it off before you leave.
2. Reset your thermostat. Turning your HVAC system completely off is never a good idea. The dramatic summer temperatures in Arizona can play havoc with your home. Turning the HVAC system off prevents the air inside of your home from circulating, which can cause mold (yes, I know we live in the desert, but monsoons bring lots of moisture), cause wood to swell and warp, cause flooring to buckle or stretch, and potentially cause your walls to crack. It can ruin your wine, too. It can cause the corks to dry out, spoiling what is inside—just saying. Leaving your thermostat set at 85 to 88 degrees will minimize the effects of our excessive heat and, in the long run, save you with repairs and maintenance.
3. Reset the temperature on your water heater. There is no reason to maintain a hot tank of water for a long period of time while you’re on vacation. If possible, you can turn your water heater completely off. If you’re not comfortable doing this, set it to the lowest heat level (often called “vacation mode”).
4. Clean your home. I know, I know! It may seem silly to clean a home that is going to remain empty for a while, but upon your return, you will be happy you did!
Use this as a quick cleaning checklist:
• Empty your dishwasher and leave the door open so the water dissipates.
• Make sure there are no clothes in the washer or dryer to avoid coming home to moldy laundry, especially if your washer and dryer are in your garage.
• Clean your garbage disposal by running a half cup of vinegar and water through it to avoid coming home to a very unpleasant (and hard to get rid of) smell.
• Take out the trash before you leave, and arrange for someone to take the cans to the street for trash day.
Catherine Schaeffer at DanSco Real Estate Group, 480-650-3444, [email protected]