How to Prep Your Home When Leaving for Vacation During Winter

Heading out for a winter vacation is exciting, but coming home to burst pipes or a chilly, energy-guzzling house is not! With a little preparation, you can relax on your trip knowing your home is safe and sound. Here’s how to get your house ready before you hit the road:

Protect Your Pipes from Freezing

Frozen pipes are one of the most common winter woes. To prevent this, insulate any exposed pipes in unheated areas like basements, attics, or garages. On especially cold nights, open cabinet doors under sinks to let warm air circulate, and let faucets drip slightly to keep water moving. If you’ll be away for more than a few days, consider shutting off the main water supply and draining the pipes for extra peace of mind.

Set Your Thermostat Wisely

Don’t turn the heat off completely! Set your thermostat to at least 55°F (13°C) to keep things warm enough to prevent freezing, but cool enough to save on energy bills. If you have a smart thermostat, you can even monitor and adjust the temperature from afar.

Unplug and Save Energy

Before you leave, unplug non-essential electronics and appliances. Not only does this cut down on energy use, but it also protects your devices from power surges while you’re away. Think TVs, coffee makers, chargers, and computers.

Secure Your Home

Double-check that all doors and windows are locked, and close curtains or blinds to make your home look lived-in. If you have a security system, make sure it’s armed and set up to notify you of any unusual activity. Motion-sensor lights outside can be a great deterrent, too.

Ask for Help

Enlist a trusted neighbour or friend to keep an eye on your home. They can collect mail, shovel snow, and check for any signs of trouble. Leaving a car in the driveway or setting lights on timers can also help make your home look occupied.

Final Checklist Before You Go

• Take out the trash to avoid coming back to odours.
• Clean out perishables from the fridge.
• Check smoke and carbon monoxide detectors.
• Leave emergency contact info with your house-sitter or neighbour.

With these simple steps, you can enjoy your winter getaway without worrying about what’s happening back home. Safe travels and happy winter adventures!