Protecting Your Home: Essential Tips for Turning Off Devices Before Going on Holiday

Heading off on a well-deserved break, the last thing you want to worry about are forgotten tasks or potential disasters in your home. For instance, coming back to a burglar alarm issue, a water leak, or even a catastrophic scenario can ruin your return experience. This guide will help you effectively switch off various appliances and ensure a safe home for your holiday.

DO Switch Off Before Leaving for Vacation

There are a few key devices you should unplug or switch off to protect your home and belongings while you're away. Here are some essential steps to take:

Water Supply

The most common domestic disaster to worry about is a water leak. It can cause extensive damage and expense if left unattended. So, making sure the water supply is turned off at the stopcock (usually located under the kitchen sink or where the service pipe enters your home) is a must-do.

Heating (Excluding Winter Months)

If you're leaving during the summer, fall, or spring, it's wise to turn off the boiler or heating system to save energy and money. However, if you're planning your trip during the deep winter, it's important to protect your pipes from freezing and bursting.

Modern boilers often have a 'frost mode' that can be activated when temperatures drop below a certain level. Alternatively, you can program the heating to come on for an hour or two each day. Timing it for early morning, when outside temperatures are at their lowest, is a good strategy.

Electronics and Gadgets

TVs, stereos, computers, and routers often continue to draw power even when in standby mode. Packing is the perfect time to spend a few minutes unplugging these appliances to save electricity and reduce the risk of fire.

Kitchen gadgets like kettles, coffee makers, toasters, microwaves, dishwashers, and washing machines should all be switched off and unplugged to prevent the risk of electrical fires and to save energy.

Don’t Switch Off

While you can unplug many devices, certain appliances should remain connected to the power source. Here are some exceptions to keep in mind:

Refrigerator and Freezer

While you can unplug these appliances for extended trips, it's generally not advisable to do so for shorter vacations. If you switch off a refrigerator or freezer, it will begin to defrost, leading to a wet floor and the foul smell of decomposing food once you return.

Automatic Timers

Automatic timers for lights and other devices are important because they can help deter burglars and make your home look occupied. Make sure you've set these up before you leave and scheduled them to run during your absence.

Remember, taking control of your home's preparation ensures you won't have to deal with unexpected issues while you're away. By following these simple steps, you can enjoy a worry-free holiday and return to a safe, secure home.