Going away? Don’t leave your home at risk
Before you head off on your summer holiday it’s obviously important to make sure you home is secure and protected from avoidable issues such as leaks, electrical faults or boiler problems.
At Solitaire we know that small oversights can lead to bigger problems – especially when no one is at home to spot them. There’s always a lot to do before going away so we’ve put together a simple and practical checklist to help you before you lock up and relax!
Electrics Check
- Unplug non-essential appliances (TVs, kettles, computers, etc.) to reduce fire risk and save energy.
- Check smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors – replace batteries if needed.
- Set lights on timers to give the appearance that someone is home.
- If you have a security system make sure it is armed and functioning – test cameras and motion detectors.
- If you have one, make sure the battery is working in your ring door bell.
Plumbing Check
- Check for any signs of leaks around toilets, sinks, and appliances.
- Empty and turn off your dishwasher and washing machine to avoid any build-up of stagnant water.
- Consider turning off your hot water or ideally set the programmer to holiday mode so you have hot water when you return.
- Turn off the main water supply, if you don’t know where your stop cock is, please feel free to contact us.
Heating Check
- Ideally ensure your boiler is in good working order – if it’s due a service, get it done by us before you go away. When we leave your boiler service appointment we place a sticker on your boiler so you always know the next best date for a service.
- Reduce your heating thermostat to a lower temperature, we recommend 15 degrees Celsius. This will help avoid your house getting too cold and the boiler won’t have to work too hard to get it back up to temperature.
- As explained for the hot water, set the programmer to holiday mode for your heating and set to around 15 degrees Celsius. This way, you will have a nice warm house when you return.
Check back with us later in the year for our top tips when going away in the winter months. In the meantime, enjoy peace of mind while you’re away and have a safe trip!
Our monthly newsletter contains helpful plumbing, heating and electrical top tips. If you don’t receive already then you can sign-up using the form at the bottom of this website page.
