Essential Tips from Harts Experts for Home Safety During Vacations

Keeping Your Home Safe While on Vacation

As the vacation season heats up, homeowners often find themselves torn between the excitement of travel and the anxiety of leaving their homes unattended. Harts Plumbers, Electricians and HVAC Technicians, a leading service provider based in Tacoma, WA, is here to share proactive measures to ensure home safety.

Preparing Your Home for Vacation

Prior to heading out, creating a comprehensive checklist can drastically enhance home security. Richard Hart, co-owner of Harts Home Services, emphasizes that a few simple steps can prevent unwanted complications during your time away.

1. Adjust Your Water Heater Settings

One common oversight includes water heater settings. Many modern water heaters have a vacation mode – a handy feature that allows you to pause heating when the household is empty. Check your device's instructions and adjust it before you leave to save on energy costs.

2. Rethink Air Conditioning Usage

While you're on vacation, consider reprogramming your air conditioning to operate at a warmer temperature, typically between 75°F to 85°F. This can help reduce energy waste without compromising your home's integrity.

3. Preventing Water Damage

Hart illustrates that water damage is among the leading incidents homeowners face while away. Rather than simply turning off the water supply, consider investing in a smart water shut-off valve. These devices monitor pressure and flow, providing real-time alerts or automatically stopping water flow in case of leaks. Remember, water damage restoration costs can add up quickly, ranging from $3 to $7.50 per square foot, not including pipe repairs.

Implementing Safety Measures

Apart from managing utility settings, there are additional pragmatic safety measures to consider:

4. Secure Valuables and Use Timers

Homeowners usually secure valuables in safes and put lights on timers for authenticity, but they sometimes forget crucial electrics. Unplugging large appliances can mitigate the risk of electrical fires and save energy simultaneously. Be sure to test the batteries in smoke and carbon monoxide alarms, ensuring they work effectively during your absence.

5. Engage with Neighbors

Having a trusted neighbor keep an eye on your property is also wise. They can bring in mail, water plants, and monitor any unusual activity around your home, lending an extra layer of security.

Conclusion

For more thorough preparation tips, homeowners can explore Hart's blog, especially crafted for long vacations. An ounce of prevention can go a long way in safeguarding your peace of mind while you relax miles away from your home. Harts Plumbers, Electricians, and HVAC Technicians provides extensive house services in Seattle, Tacoma, Tukwila, and Silverdale. To learn more, call (253) 470-8766 or visit Harts Services.

By planning wisely and taking safety precautions, you can enjoy your vacation knowing your home is secure and well looked after.