As winter approaches and you plan your long-awaited vacation, there's more to think about than just packing your suitcase. Preparing your home for your absence, especially during the cold months, is a crucial step often overlooked by many. As a senior, ensuring your home is safe and secure while you're away can bring peace of mind and prevent avoidable damages.
Protecting Your Plumbing
One of the most vulnerable aspects of your home during the winter is your plumbing system. Uninsulated pipes can freeze and burst, causing significant damage. To prevent this, insulate exposed pipes in unheated areas of your home, such as the garage, attic, or crawl spaces. Special pipe-insulating materials can be easily found at your local hardware store.
Preparing Your Heating System
Your heating system plays a crucial role in keeping your home safe during the winter months. Before you head out on your trip, schedule a professional maintenance check of your system to make sure everything is in working order. This can help you avoid any freezing or bursting pipes, saving you from costly repairs upon your return.
Part of winterizing your home involves setting your thermostat to a strategic temperature. While it may be tempting to turn off your heat completely while you're away, this could lead to a chilly return. Instead, consider setting your thermostat to a low but safe temperature—generally around 55 degrees Fahrenheit.
Securing the Exterior
Your home's exterior is directly exposed to the winter weather, so it's critical to secure it thoroughly. Begin by cleaning your gutters and downspouts. This prevents the build-up of ice dams that can cause damage to your roof and walls.
Also, ensure your windows and doors are adequately protected against drafts with weather stripping. This prevents cold air from sneaking into your home, helping maintain a consistent internal temperature.
Adding Security Measures
An empty house can be an inviting target for potential intruders. Enhancing your home security is, therefore, essential. Consider investing in a security system if you don't have one already. Alternatively, timer lights can give the illusion of occupancy, discouraging any potential burglars.
Inform a trusted neighbor or local law enforcement about your travel plans so they can keep an eye on your property. This community support can offer an additional layer of protection for your home.
Doing Maintenance Tasks
Before going away, basic home maintenance should not be neglected. Arrange for services like snow removal to avoid falls or lawn care as required. An unkempt home can signal your absence and attract unwanted attention.
Senior Helpers Tempe Helps Seniors Remain Safe Throughout the Winter
Preparing your home for your winter travels is a crucial step towards ensuring a worry-free vacation. From winterizing your home to maintaining its warmth and ensuring proper security, these measures can save you from considerable stress and costly damage.
For seniors living in Tempe, Ahwatukee, Mesa, Chandler, and Maricopa, Senior Helpers Tempe is here to offer any additional assistance you may require in preparing your homes for winter travel. Don't hesitate to reach out to us. We're here to help make your winter getaways as comfortable and stress-free as possible.