Paper clips attached to the computer screen and messages Please turn off the electrical appliances when not in use.

Leaving Town? Protect Your Appliances with These DIY Tips

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How to Protect Your Appliances Before Going on a Trip

If you’re one of the many people planning a trip in the New Year, don’t make the mistake of leaving your appliances as they are. Things can easily take a turn for the worst when you’re not around, especially during the winter. You may come back from your trip only to discover that some of your appliances no longer work the way they should. Spend a few minutes prepping these items before you leave town. Use our vacation appliance checklist to make sure your home is ready for your departure.

Disconnect the Dishwasher

Leaving your automatic dishwasher connected to the system can be a danger in the winter. If the temperature dips below freezing, the pipes could burst, putting your appliance at risk. Before you leave town, turn off electrical power to the dishwasher by flipping fuse on the circuit breaker. Disconnect the water line and shut off the water supply. You’ll need to reconnect the water line and return the circuit breaker to its original position when you return.

Turn Off the HVAC System

It’s always a good idea to turn off the thermostat or HVAC system before leaving town. There’s usually no point in letting the system run while you’re not home. However, letting your home freeze up isn’t always a good idea either. If you expect the temperature to stay below freezing while you’re out of town, leave the thermostat on 55- or 50-degrees Fahrenheit to prevent your pipes from freezing.

Shut Off the Water Supply

In addition to unplugging your dishwasher, you may want to disconnect the entire water supply to keep your pipes from freezing. There’s also a chance you could spring a leak and puddles and drips collect around your home. This could lead to lasting structural damage if unattended for days on end.

Turn Off “Vampire” Electronics

Some gadgets and electronic may be sucking up energy without your knowledge. These are often called “vampire” electronics for their refusal to power off. This often includes LED displays, digital clocks, remotes, or really anything with an external power supply. Small kitchen appliances can also draw electricity, include coffee makers, toaster ovens, and microwaves. Be sure to unplug these items while you are away to avoid using more electricity than necessary.

 

Use this list to get your home ready for your big trip. A few simple changes will help you save money in the long run. You also won’t have to worry about coming home to a mess or a bunch of broken appliances. Contact Absolute Appliance Repair in San Francisco for more tips before leaving town.