Planning a winter getaway? Whether you're leaving the house for 2 weeks in the winter or heading south for a month, the last thing you want is to return to burst pipes, a sky-high energy bill, or unexpected surprises.
This winter vacation checklist helps to ensure your home stays safe, warm, and secure while you enjoy your time away. Below is your easy-to-follow guide for winter home preparation before you hit the road or board that plane.
1. Unplug Non-Essential Devices
Before you leave, go room by room and unplug anything that doesn't need to stay on. This includes:
- TVs and entertainment systems
- Computers and gaming consoles
- Kitchen countertop appliances
- Chargers and small electronics
These devices draw "phantom" power even when off, and that adds up over weeks. Plus, unplugging lowers your fire risk.
Bonus Tip: Use light timers on a few lamps to give the impression that someone is home. Look for timers with random patterns for added security.
2. Clean Up Before You Leave
Coming home to a tidy house is one of life’s underrated joys. Here’s your leaving house checklist for cleaning:
- Take out all trash and recycling
- Run and empty the dishwasher
- Clean the garbage disposal
- Empty the fridge of perishables
- Sweep/vacuum high-traffic areas
- Launder any used towels or bedding
Optional: Place an open box of baking soda in the fridge and freezer to prevent odors.
3. Adjust Your Heat Settings
Keeping your house warm enough to prevent pipe bursts but cool enough to save energy is a critical part of your winter home preparation.
- Set your thermostat to 60–65°F (15–18°C)
- If you have a smart thermostat, program it to stay steady
- Turn your water heater to vacation mode or its lowest setting
Extra Energy Tip: If you’ll be gone for a month in winter, consider shutting off your water heater altogether (check your owner's manual).
4. Shut Off Your Water Supply
Water damage is one of the costliest (and most preventable) disasters while you're away. If you’re leaving the house for 2 weeks in the winter or more, this is a must:
- Turn off your main water supply
- Open all faucets to drain water lines
- Flush toilets to empty tanks and bowls
- Leave one faucet slightly open (preferably in the basement) to relieve pressure
Pro Tip: Consider installing a smart water sensor system. It can alert you—or even shut off the water—if leaks occur while you're gone.
5. Check Safety and Security Systems
Group all security-related tasks together for peace of mind:
- Test smoke and carbon monoxide detectors
- Check alarm systems and confirm monitoring coverage
- Set exterior lights on motion sensors
- Lock all windows and doors (don't forget garage and basement)
- Remove any spare keys from obvious hiding spots
If you're worried about packages piling up, temporarily pause mail or redirect deliveries.
6. Notify a Neighbor or Friend
Let someone nearby know you’re leaving – especially if you're leaving the house for a month in the winter. Provide:
- Your travel dates
- Contact info and backup contacts
- A basic home map (where the fuse box is, shutoffs, etc.)
- A list of tasks like plant watering, pet care, or checking on the home periodically
Optional: Ask them to pick up your mail or newspapers, or arrange for a hold at the post office.
7. Alert Financial Institutions
It’s smart to tell your:
- Bank
- Credit card companies
- Home security provider
Let them know the duration of your trip and where you’ll be. This helps avoid fraud alerts and ensures emergency contact if anything unusual arises.
8. Protect Your Budget with 2-10 Home Buyers Warranty
Vacation is a time to relax, not to worry about home breakdowns. But what if a furnace fails or a plumbing issue strikes while you're gone?
A home warranty from 2-10 Home Buyers Warranty (2-10) gives you peace of mind. It helps protect your budget against covered breakdowns to covered systems and appliances like your HVAC system, refrigerator, and water heater all year-round.
Don’t let unexpected repairs ruin your budget or your vacation. With 2-10, you get dependable protection and access to a quality service network.
Final Winter Vacation Checklist Summary
Here’s a quick glance at your leaving house checklist:
- Unplug non-essential electronics
- Clean kitchen, fridge, and garbage areas
- Set thermostat to 60–65°F
- Turn water heater to vacation mode
- Shut off main water supply and drain pipes
- Test safety alarms and lock all entry points
- Set light timers and motion sensors
- Notify a neighbor or friend
- Alert your bank and security provider
- Purchase a 2-10 Home Warranty
Wherever your winter escape takes you, proper planning ensures a smooth return. With this winter vacation checklist, you can leave your home confidently, knowing it's safe, secure, and ready to welcome you back.
