Are you planning to travel this winter? Temperatures fluctuate fast and the last thing you want is to come home to a big mess because a pipe froze and burst. Before you hit the road, there are a few things to prep in your home before your winter travels, so you don’t come home to a disaster.
Even if you’ll be gone for only a few days, add these 8 items to your travel planning checklist.
Programmable Thermostat
A thermostat that you can program to automatically adjust the temperature is an efficient way to regulate your home’s comfort level. It can be set to a cooler temperature while you’re away and heat up before you arrive home. If you upgrade to a smart thermostat, you can monitor and change your home’s temperature from your phone, even while away.
Away Temp Should Be 65 Degrees
Most electric companies recommend an “away” setting to be 65 degrees. This keeps your bill down and your home is still warm enough,so pipes don’t freeze.
Open Cabinet Doors
When cabinet doors under sinks in your bathrooms and kitchen are open, warm air flows around your pipes. We recommend opening cabinets to expose pipes not only when you’re away for a few days, but also at night during extreme freezing conditions.
Insulate Pipes
Use foam pipe sleeves that you can find at the hardware store to insulate your hot water pipes and other exposed pipes. Don’t forget to make sure all your garden hoses are unhooked for the winter and insulate your outdoor water faucet.
Seal Drafty Areas
Check for drafts around your doors and windows. Where needed, either caulk or use weather stripping to seal the leaks. A drafty home will increase your heating bill.
Check Ceiling Fan
Check the setting on your ceiling fan to make sure it is rotating clockwise. When on low speed, the fan will pull up cool air and push the warm air down. The air circulation will help your furnace do its job.
Close Your Curtains
Having your curtains closed is not only for privacy while you’re away, it helps keep the warmth inside your home.
Heating System Inspected and Cleaned
Be sure that your heating system has been inspected before the harsh winter weather sets in. Carbon monoxide leak scan be deadly. Make sure your carbon monoxide and smoke detectors have also been tested and has fresh batteries. If you use a fireplace, have your chimney cleaned and inspected. If you’re gone for longer than a few days, have a friend or neighbor keep an eye on things and even collect your mail. You can relax and enjoy your time away.
Happy travels.