1. Program your thermostat. Energy's largest source of consumption comes directly from heating and cooling. To avoid that additional cost while you're out spending time on vacation, setting your thermostat to maintain a stable temperature; no cooler than 54 degrees and no warmer than 80 degrees. You should keep your home's temperature stable in both summer or winter in order to prevent condensation, frozen pipes or any other damaging effects.
2.Unplug appliances. Unplugging those daily appliances that you use can save you a lot of money on your electric bill, but more importantly since you will be away there's no reason to have them plugged in! This means toasters, coffee pot, televisions, DVD players, and any idle electronics.
3.Take our trash/recycle. The worst thing about coming home from a vacation is coming home to a not so smelling nice one! Before you leave, take out any trash that is in your homes (kitchen, bathroom and bedrooms). If you have a lot of bananas, apples or fresh fruit sitting on your kitchen counters, move them into the fridge or dispose of them. Dispose of anything that might cause flies or any insects that might want a bite! Make sure you empty out the trash and recycling bins before you depart.
4.Do the dishes. Dirty dishes in a house that is empty can lead to pest and mold in your sinks, not to mention a bad aroma in your house once you come back. Give everything a good wash or throw them in the dishwasher. Make sure you turn off the dishwasher once it is done!
5.Schedule to pay your rent/utilities. Avoid wondering if you forgot that rent or utilities were paid for before you board your flight by setting up auto-pay or scheduling a reminder a week prior.
6. Mail mail and more mail! If you are expecting deliveries while on the beach, reschedule them to come when you arrive back. If the package is being sent directly to the leasing office; make sure to inform them that you will be away so they will hold it longer for you. If your apartment building offers Package Concierge; make sure you set this up so your packages will be waiting for once you get back.
7. Secure your home. Double and triple check the locks of your doors and windows. Close the blinds and draw the curtains. Make sure the leasing office knows that you will be away for a period of time. Provide them with contract information in case of an emergency so they can reach you.
8. Set up pet plans. If you do have pets, and they aren't coming on vacation with you make sure they will be cared properly in your absence. Check availability at pet day cares that accommodate during the time you need or send them to a loved one that will be able to pet-sit until you come back.
9.Plan for your plants. Just like pets, plants need love too! Make sure you take care of them while you're away too. Some plants can stay outside on your balcony to soak up some sun, but make sure there is shade for them too.While other plants require a nicely cool indoor spot. Ask a neighbor of friend to help you water your plants if you are leaving for a longer period of time. Before you take off remember to feed your plants with a nice cup of H2O.
10. Clean Up! It may seem like a lot to handle with the rush of having to get to the airport on time and with the excitement of being away from home, but nothing beats coming back home to a freshly clean home. Find some time to clean your bedroom and switch your sheets for fresh ones. Run a load of laundry so your dirty hamper can be filled with the clothes from your trip.
Always remember to have fun! It's that time to relax and let your hair down. :)
Grady's GreenLiving Tips was created in 2014 by Grady Management, Inc. Grady Management was founded in 1965 and continues to provide a full service residential, commercial, and consulting real estate firm in the greater Washington and Baltimore metropolitan area. Learn more from our website or Facebook page.
