There’s nothing like the excitement of heading off on a summer vacation. Whether you’re jetting off to a tropical paradise or road-tripping across the country, one thing’s for sure: peace of mind starts at home.

Taking a little time to prep your house before you leave can make all the difference between a relaxing getaway and constant worry about what’s going on back at home. Here’s a complete guide to getting your home vacation-ready, so you can truly unplug and enjoy your break.

Secure Your Home

Lock All Doors & Windows—including garage & basement entries.

Check Your Alarm System and make sure it’s armed before you leave. If you don’t have one, consider installing a smart security system with motion sensors and camera monitoring.

Set Timers For Lights to create the illusion that someone is home.

Pause Mail & Deliveries or ask a neighbor to collect them if you’ll be gone for an extended vacation.

Let a Trusted Friend or Neighbor Know you’ll be away and the best way to reach you just in case.

Unplug & Power Down

Even when electronics are turned off, many still draw power—a phenomenon known as “phantom load.” Before you leave:

Unplug Electronic Devices including TVs, computers, chargers, and kitchen appliances (except the fridge & freezer!).

Turn Off Power Strips.

Consider Turning Off Your Water—if you’ll be gone for a week or longer, turn off your water at the main water valve. This will help prevent any disasters while you’re away.

These steps not only cut down your energy bill, but also lower the risk of electrical issues.

Optimize Your HVAC System

Your air conditioner works hard during the summer—but it doesn’t need to cool an empty house.

Set Your Thermostat to a Higher Temperature, ideally between 5-10°F warmer than normal. This will keep your house from getting too hot, while conserving energy.

Install a Smart Thermostat if you don’t already have one. Many models allow remote access so you can adjust the temperature from your phone if needed.

Close Blinds and Curtains to block out sunlight and reduce indoor heat gain.

Replace Your Air Filter before you leave. A clean filter helps your system run more efficiently and prevents strain while you’re away.

Check out our full post about preparing your HVAC for summer vacation!

Think Green While You’re Gone

Use a Programmable Sprinkler System to keep your lawn and garden healthy without waste.

Water Plants & Mow the Lawn just before you leave so things don’t look negleted while you’re gone.

Consider Solar-Powered Lights for exterior areas. They’re energy efficient and require no maintenance while you’re away.

Protect Your Home Against the Unexpected

Accidents and malfunctions happy, but a few simple steps can help prevent them.

Clean Out Your Fridgeto avoid returning to a science experiement. Toss perishables or donate them.

Take Out the Trash to prevent odors, pests, or mold.

Run the Dishwasher and Garbage Disposal the night before you leave (to avoid any potential leaks happening at the start of your vacation).

Double-Check Smoke Detectors and replace batteries if needed.

Clean Gutters and Drains if you’re expecting summer storms while you’re away.

Final Check Before You Leave

Thermostat Set Higher

Blinds Closed

Electronics Unplugged

HVAC Filter Replaced

Lights on Timers

Doors & Windows Locked

Enjoy Your Vacation & Come Home to Peace of Mind

Taking a few minutes to prep your space will let you truly relax during your vacation… And that’s what summer is all about! You’ll come back to your house just as you left it—secure and ready to welcome you home.