The holiday travel season brings a whirlwind of excitement (and a fair amount of chaos), from packing bags and coordinating schedules to ensuring every detail of your trip is in place. Amid all the planning for the perfect getaway or family visit, it’s equally vital to prepare your home before you leave. A few intentional maintenance steps can safeguard your property, prevent costly surprises, and help you return to a safe, comfortable home when the holidays are over.
In my experience as the Chief Marketing Officer of ePumps (a premier water pump supplier), I have seen how small preventive measures can make an enormous difference during winter travel. From protecting plumbing systems to preventing roof issues, proactive home preparation is often what stands between homeowners and costly emergency repairs. The below home maintenance checklist will help you safeguard your home so you can travel with peace of mind.
Inspect and Adjust Your HVAC System
Before heading out for the holidays, make sure your heating system is in good shape (especially if you live in a region where temperatures drop significantly). Schedule a quick inspection if it’s been a while since your last maintenance, or at least replace your furnace filter to help your system run efficiently while you’re gone. If you have a smart thermostat, set it to vacation mode.
For manual thermostats, adjust the temperature to a level that’s cost-effective yet protective. Generally, 55-60°F is warm enough to prevent pipes from freezing but cool enough to save on energy bills. Ensure air vents aren’t blocked by furniture or decor to maintain proper airflow during your absence.
Protect Pipes From Freezing
Frozen pipes are one of the most common winter-related home disasters, and they can cause extensive water damage. To prevent this, insulate exposed pipes in unheated areas such as garages, attics, basements, and crawl spaces. Foam insulation sleeves or heat tape can provide extra protection for vulnerable lines.
Before leaving, allow a slow drip from faucets on exterior walls during extreme cold snaps, or shut off the main water supply entirely if your home will be vacant for a long stretch. After shutting off the water, open faucets to drain any remaining pressure. This step significantly reduces the risk of pipes bursting while you’re away.
Check Your Sump Pump and Basement
Winter storms and unexpected thaws can put your basement at risk, especially if you live in an area prone to heavy precipitation. Ensure your sump pump is working properly by pouring a bucket of water into the pit to see if it activates. If you have a battery backup system, confirm that the battery is charged and in good condition. Take this opportunity to move valuable items stored in the basement off the floor or into watertight containers.
A few preventive steps can save you from returning home to a water-damaged mess.
Secure Doors, Windows, and Entry Points
Home security should be one of the top priorities on your holiday travel maintenance checklist. Inspect all exterior doors and windows for proper locks and sealing. Reinforce sliding doors with a metal rod, and make sure garage doors close fully and latch securely. If you have a security system, notify the monitoring company that you’ll be away, update emergency contacts, and test the system before leaving. Smart doorbells, outdoor cameras, and motion-activated lights are also excellent tools for deterring unwanted visitors.
Prepare Lighting Timers and Smart Devices
Smart lighting and timers can also create the illusion that someone is home, which can reduce the likelihood of break-ins. So set timers to turn lights on and off at staggered intervals rather than a predictable pattern. If you use a smart home system, double-check that everything connects properly to your Wi-Fi and that your devices are updated. You may also want to enable smart plugs for radios or TVs to add additional movement or sound within your home.
This simple setup can go a long way in boosting your home’s overall security.
Clean and Unplug Appliances
Before traveling, clean out your refrigerator to avoid returning to spoiled food. Dispose of perishables, check expiration dates, and, if necessary, leave a box of baking soda to absorb odors. Empty the dishwasher and leave the door slightly open to prevent mildew buildup. On top of this, unplug small appliances like toasters and coffee makers to reduce fire hazards and save energy. Power strips can make this task easier and help protect devices from voltage surges triggered by winter storms.
Prep Your Plumbing and Water Systems
If you choose not to shut off the main water supply, be sure to turn off individual water valves to toilets, washing machines, and sinks. These appliances are common sources of leaks and can cause damage if something goes wrong while you’re away. In addition, drain any outdoor hoses and disconnect them from faucets to prevent ice from backing up into indoor pipes. Shut off irrigation systems and insulate outdoor spigots with foam covers for added protection.
Don’t Forget the Roof, Gutters, and Exterior Walkways
Your roof and gutters carry the burden of winter weather, and a quick exterior check can help you avoid major issues. Clear gutters of leaves and debris so melting snow can drain properly, which will reduce the risk of ice dams. Inspect your roof for missing shingles, and trim overhanging tree branches that could break under the weight of snow or ice. Also check that exterior walkways and railings are stable, especially if a neighbor or house sitter will be stopping by. Stock up on ice melt to keep entryways safe upon your return.
Arrange Mail, Packages, and Deliveries
An overflowing mailbox or packages piling up on your porch signals to burglars that a home is vacant. So put your mail on hold through the postal service, pause recurring deliveries, or ask a trusted neighbor to bring in packages. If you have a package locker service available in your area, consider using it during the holiday season.
Organize Trash and Dispose of Waste
Take out all trash, recycling, and compost before you leave to avoid unpleasant smells or attracting pests. Clean your kitchen sink drain, run the garbage disposal, and take a moment to wipe down counters to deter insects or rodents. If trash pickup occurs during your time away, arrange for a neighbor or friend to place bins out and bring them back in. Leaving bins at the curb for days is another quick giveaway that no one is home.
Perform a Final Walkthrough
Before locking up and heading out the door, perform a full home walkthrough. Check that all windows and doors are secure, stove and oven knobs are turned off, and space heaters are unplugged. Make sure fireplace dampers are closed, thermostat settings are adjusted, and lights and timers are properly set. Also confirm that your security cameras and alarms are functioning, and double-check that all necessary water valves are off or set appropriately.
This final sweep helps you catch last-minute issues and provides reassurance that everything’s in place for a safe and stress-free trip.
Now, Go Enjoy Your Trip With Peace of Mind!
Holiday travel should be a time of joy, relaxation, and cherished memories, not worry about what’s happening at home. Taking the time to perform essential maintenance tasks before you leave can prevent accidents, enhance security, and ensure your home remains in excellent condition while you’re gone. With this comprehensive checklist, you can feel confident stepping out the door knowing your home is prepared for whatever the season brings.
