Have fun Summer Vacation Plans? While we are planning on what to pack, and what to do on vacation, don’t forget also to plan on how to leave your home in the safest condition while you are away. Nothing is worse than returning from vacation relaxed and refreshed, only to come home to problems.

Avoid this stress and reference our top 10 things to do at home, before you leave for an extended vacation:

1. Put lights on timers.

You are away, but you don’t have to look like you are away. Turning on and off lights deters intruders and also saves you dollars from leaving lights on 24/7.

2. Unplug other electronics not in use.

TV’s, Computers, Microwaves, unused chargers, or anything with a lit display all are energy vampires while you are gone. Also, unplugging items can also reduce fire risk as a result of faulty wiring or a heat source.

3. Install Nest Door Bells with a camera or other remote monitoring systems.

While you are away you can see everyone who visits your home, remotely from a smart phone.

4. Adjust your thermostat.

In the summer you should set your thermostat to around 80º while you are not at home, in the winter no cooler than 55º.

5. Turn off your main water valve.

If a leak presents itself while you are away, turning off your main water valve prevents disaster. No one wants to return home to water damage.

6. Draw your curtains.

Not only does it prevent others from peeking in your home, it can keep your home cooler during those long sunny days, reducing energy costs.

7. Consider outdoor lights with motion detectors.

Installed in merely an afternoon, these have long been a great standard way to add safety to your home.

8. Suspend your Mail Service or have a neighbor get your mail.

Always a good idea if something valuable is in there, or to thwart intruders from knowing your are out of town.

9. Clean out your refrigerator & take out trash.

This goes without saying, but, you don’t want to come home to unpleasant odors!

10. Check all windows and doors are closed.

An opened window can invite intruders, or let in the hot humid air of summer.

We hope you have a great summer vacation, and are welcomed home to your home is pristine condition! Walter Electric is here for your summertime projects too–surge protection, landscape lighting and FANS!