Escaping the Cold? Do These Six Things Before You Leave for Vacation

Thinking about getting out of Maine for a few weeks to be somewhere warm? Awesome! Just don’t forget that your home stays in winter even if you don’t.

Here are six things to do in your home to avoid unnecessary winter “complications” when you return from getting some much-needed R&R.

1. Adjust your thermostat. Don’t turn off your heating system! Keep it running on the heat setting set for about 55 degrees or so to prevent pipes from freezing. Consider keeping kitchen cabinets open to keep heat flowing to uninsulated pipes there, too.
2. Make sure all windows and doors are closed and sealed. Close shutters and check locks on all windows and doors. Install storm windows if you have them.
3. Unplug appliances. Unplugging appliances will protect them from power surges (which are common when power is restored after an outage) and reduce the risk of fire. You’ll also cut your energy bills by reducing the energy drawn from “vampire” appliances – ones that draw current even when they’re turned off.
4. Close the flue on your fireplace. This will prevent snow, rain or animals from getting into your home. It will also prevent heat from escaping.
5. Shut off the main water valve. The best way to prevent frozen pipes is to make sure there’s no water in them in the first place. Open up all your faucets to prevent pressure buildup from the little bit of water that remains in your pipes.
6. If you’re an Automatic Delivery customer, call us! Remember, the timing of your propane or heating oil delivery is based on an estimate derived from your past usage and the current weather. If you’re going away – especially if you plan to be gone for several weeks – let us know so we can revise our delivery plan accordingly.

Come home from vacation to an incident-free home this winter! Contact us today if you’re an Automatic Delivery customer planning a getaway in the coming weeks.