Here Is What Homeowners Should Do to Prepare for Summer Vacation

"If a home is going to be vacant for a week or more, there are several steps a homeowner should take to prepare their home before leaving," said Mitch Kenney, owner of Colepepper Services. "The last thing anyone wants is to return home from vacation to discover damage or theft of their possessions."

Kenney recommends the following tips to prepare the home before leaving for vacation:

Avoid an empty-looking home
When a home appears to be vacant, it makes it an easy target for burglars. There are a few steps homeowners can take to make the home look occupied. Mow the yard before leaving town for a week or more. Set a timer for a couple of lamps to come on and turn off periodically - this creates the illusion someone is home. Place mail and newspaper delivery on hold. It is also wise to contact the home security company and notify them that the home will be vacant. If the alarm is triggered, they will immediately dispatch help instead of calling the homeowner first.

Prevent unpleasant odors
Odors can fester in an unoccupied home unless these steps are taken. Dispose of food that will expire during the time away. Empty all trash cans from inside the home. Flush the garbage disposal with ½ cup of vinegar and warm water while keeping it running. This will eliminate food residue that may have built up over time.

Prevent damage to home
A large number of insurance claims filed when homeowners return from vacation are caused by water. Even a simple small leak can result in thousands of dollars in damage if not discovered quickly. There is an easy way to prevent water damage while away from home. Turn the water off at the main valve that leads into the home.

Save energy
There are several ways a homeowner can conserve energy while away from home. Unplug appliances such as televisions, toasters and coffee makers. These types of appliances use energy even when not in use. This will also prevent damage to electronics from lightning or power surges. A second way to save energy is to set your water heater on vacation mode. If your water heater is not equipped with vacation mode, turn the temperature down. There is no need to keep water warm while no one is home. It is also advisable to turn the air conditioning system up 10 degrees warmer than the standard setting. You can also use a Wi-Fi or programmable thermostat to set the house to cool just before arriving home.

For San Diego residents who would like help and suggestions for preparing their homes for vacation, the professionals at Colepepper Services are ready to assist. To find out more, visit www.colepepperservices.com or call 1-619-838-1322.

About Colepepper Services
Colepepper Services, rated A by the Better Business Bureau, is a third generation family-owned and operated plumbing, heating and cooling business serving San Diego and surrounding areas. Backed by a 100 percent satisfaction guarantee, Colepepper offers plumbing, drain and sewer repair, toilet repair, water filtration and gas leak detection. Colepepper Services has been awarded Best Plumbers in San Diego by Expertise, the Super Service Award by Angie's List, and Top Rated Elite Service Provider for HomeAdvisor. For more information, call 619-838-1322 or visit http://www.colepepperservices.com/.

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SOURCE Colepepper Services

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