Return To Normalcy: Quick 4-Point Check

The pandemic has significantly altered daily routines. Many people are now considering a return to pre-pandemic activities. Efficient strategies facilitate this transition. A comprehensive “return to normalcy quick check” should include evaluating home maintenance, personal well-being, financial health, and social connections.

Heading: Ahoy, Travelers! Get Your Home Shipshape Before You Weigh Anchor!

Okay, so you’re about to embark on an amazing adventure, jetting off to far-flung lands or maybe just escaping for a well-deserved break. That’s fantastic! But before you picture yourself sipping cocktails on a beach, let’s talk about the unsung hero of your vacation: your home.

Think of your house like a loyal pet – it needs some TLC before you leave it alone for an extended period. A little preparation goes a long way in preventing potential disasters while you’re gone. We’re not talking about turning your place into Fort Knox here, just a few simple steps to ensure everything runs smoothly in your absence.

Why bother, you ask? Well, imagine returning home to a burst pipe, a moldy fridge, or a colony of unwanted critters throwing a rave in your pantry. Not exactly the welcome-home party you were hoping for, right? By preparing your home, you can avoid costly repairs, save money, and guarantee a stress-free return to a comfortable and well-maintained space. Think of it as an investment in your future relaxation!

But the real payoff? Peace of mind. Knowing your home is secure and well-cared for allows you to truly unwind and enjoy your trip, without constantly worrying about what might be going wrong back home. Now that’s a vacation worth having! So, let’s dive in and get your home ready for your grand adventure.

Essential Systems Checklist: Your Home’s Superhero Squad

Okay, so you’re about to jet off on an amazing adventure. But before you picture yourself sipping margaritas on a beach, let’s talk about your house. Think of it as your loyal sidekick, and it needs a little prep before you leave it solo. Ignoring these crucial systems can lead to surprisingly expensive repairs and headaches upon your return. Let’s make sure everything’s in tip-top shape!

HVAC System: Taming the Temperature Beast

First up, the HVAC system – your heating and cooling champion. Don’t just crank it off and leave! We need a strategy. In the winter, setting your thermostat too low can lead to frozen pipes – a nightmare scenario. Aim for a temperature of around 55-60°F (13-16°C). This keeps things from freezing without running up a huge energy bill. In the summer, setting it to around 80-85°F (26-29°C) can keep humidity at bay and prevent any moisture issues.

And hey, when was the last time you changed that air filter? A dirty filter makes your system work harder, reducing efficiency and potentially impacting air quality. Schedule a filter replacement right before you leave – your lungs (and your wallet) will thank you.

Plumbing: Water Woes Be Gone

Next, let’s wrangle the plumbing. The single best thing you can do is turn off the main water supply. Seriously. This prevents leaks from turning into indoor swimming pools while you’re gone. Locate your main shut-off valve (usually in the basement, garage, or near the water meter) and give it a good turn. BUT… a word of caution: if you have a sprinkler system, turning off the main water might disable it. Weigh the risks – a leak versus a parched lawn.

To avoid any stagnant water shenanigans, flush all toilets and run faucets for a minute or two before you go. This clears out any lingering water and helps prevent funky smells.

And while you’re at it, give your water heater a quick once-over. Look for any signs of leaks or sediment buildup. Addressing these small issues now can prevent bigger problems down the road.

Security System: Fort Knox Mode Activated

Alright, time to fortify your fortress with the security system. Verify that your alarm is functioning correctly and that it’s communicating with your monitoring service. Give them a call to test it – it’s better to be safe than sorry.

Don’t forget about your cameras! Check their operation, adjust angles for optimal coverage, and make sure the night vision is working. You want to see everything, even in the dark.

And crucially, test those battery backups! Power outages happen, and you don’t want your security system to go down with the lights. Schedule a battery replacement if needed – consider it an investment in your peace of mind.

Irrigation System: Watering Wisdom

Finally, let’s tackle the irrigation system. You don’t want to come back to a waterlogged or withered landscape. Adjust your timer settings based on the season, the weather forecast, and any local watering restrictions. Being a good neighbor (and conserving water) is always a good look.

Take a stroll through your yard and inspect each sprinkler head. Look for clogs, leaks, or heads that are spraying in the wrong direction. A little adjustment now can save you water (and money) later. Plus, check the system for leaks. A hidden leak can waste a ton of water and damage your property. Get any issues repaired before you leave to avoid unwelcome surprises.

By taking care of these essential systems, you’re not just preventing problems – you’re giving yourself the gift of true relaxation on your trip. Now go enjoy that margarita, knowing your home is in good hands (including your own!).

Interior Preparations: Your Home’s Fortress Against Chaos While You’re Away

Alright, let’s head inside! Think of this as prepping your home for a long nap while you’re out living your best vacation life. It’s all about making sure you don’t come back to a science experiment gone wrong. Nobody wants mold monsters or surprise insect roommates, right? These steps help prevent spoilage, minimize the risk of damage, and keeps those pesky pests from throwing a house party while you’re gone.

Appliances: The Great Shutdown

• Refrigerator: Emptying your fridge isn’t just about avoiding that mystery smell upon your return. It also prevents attracting unwanted critters. Toss out anything perishable, give it a good wipe-down, and maybe even leave a box of baking soda inside to absorb any lingering odors.

• Dishwasher: Run a cycle with a cleaning agent to ensure it is nice and empty, then leave the door ajar.

• Washing Machine: Similar to the dishwasher, ensure the washing machine is empty, clean the dispensers, and leave the door slightly ajar to prevent that musty, mildew smell. Think of it as letting it breathe.

Electronics: Unleash the Power of Unplugging

• Phantom Loads: Those little lights on your TV and chargers might seem harmless, but they’re energy vampires, sucking power even when you’re not using them! Unplugging non-essential electronics saves energy and lowers your electricity bill. Plus, it protects against power surges, which can be a real headache.

• Surge Protectors: Check your surge protectors to make sure they’re still in good condition. If they’ve taken a hit from previous surges, replace them. It’s a small investment for big protection.

• Mail and Newspaper: There is a great line from a movie, “keep the mail off the porch”. A pile of newspapers and overflowing mailbox is basically a flashing sign that says, “Nobody’s home!” Hold your mail and newspaper deliveries to avoid advertising your absence to potential wrongdoers.

Pantry/Food Storage: The Purge and Protect

• Expiration Dates: Go through your pantry and toss out anything that’s past its prime. Expired food is just an invitation for bugs and bacteria. Plus, you don’t want to come home to any unpleasant surprises.

• Pest Prevention: This is where you become a pest-fighting ninja. Seal all open food containers (cereal, crackers, flour, etc.) in airtight containers. Wipe up crumbs and spills. Consider using pest control products, like ant traps or cockroach bait, to nip any potential infestations in the bud.

• Welcome Home Stash: Think ahead! Stock up on a few essential items for your return, like coffee, tea, and a few non-perishable snacks. It’s so nice to come home and not have to immediately run to the store.

Cleaning Supplies: A Strategic Stockpile

• Before you leave, make sure you have a stash of essential cleaning supplies readily available. A bottle of all-purpose cleaner, paper towels, and maybe some disinfectant wipes will make that post-trip cleanup a breeze.

Houseplants: Operation Green Thumb

• Give your houseplants a good watering before you go. For longer trips, consider self-watering solutions, like watering globes or wick systems.
• Move plants to a spot where they’ll receive appropriate sunlight. Different plants have different needs, so do a little research to make sure they’re happy while you’re away.

General Tidiness: The Zen of Coming Home

• Give your home a quick dusting before you leave. It’ll prevent dust bunnies from multiplying while you’re gone.
• Clear any clutter that might be lying around. Coming home to a clean and organized space is so much more relaxing.
• Do that last load of laundry! Nobody wants to come home to a pile of dirty clothes festering in the hamper.

Garage/Shed: The Forgotten Zones

• Organize tools and equipment to prevent tripping hazards and potential damage. A tidy garage is a safe garage.
• Implement pest control measures, especially if you store food (pet food, birdseed) or garden supplies in the garage or shed. Those spaces can be havens for rodents and insects.

Exterior Maintenance: Keeping Up Appearances (Even When You’re Not There!)

Okay, picture this: you’re finally on that dream vacation, sipping something fruity on a beach…but lurking in the back of your mind is a nagging worry: “What’s happening with my poor, neglected house?”. Don’t let a jungle of a lawn or overflowing gutters ruin your chill! This section’s all about making sure your home’s exterior is looking its best, even when you’re miles away. It’s about curb appeal and preventing any sneaky outdoor disasters from brewing in your absence. Think of it as sending your house on its own little mini-vacation – a spa day for your yard, if you will.

Lawn: Making Sure It Doesn’t Look Abandoned

• Mow, Mow, Mow Your Lawn! Get that grass trimmed right before you head out the door. It’s not just about aesthetics (although a neat lawn definitely deters unwanted attention); it’s also about discouraging pests. Taller grass is like an open invitation for critters to set up shop.
• Long Trip? Call in the Pros! If you’re going to be gone for more than a week or two, consider arranging for lawn care services. A weekly mow and weed will keep things looking sharp. Your neighbors will thank you (and your HOA, if you have one, will definitely thank you!). It prevents your yard from becoming that neighborhood eyesore and keeps the value of your home strong.

Garden Beds: Give ‘Em Some Love Before You Leave

• Weed ‘Em and Feed ‘Em! Pull those weeds and give your garden a good watering right before you go. A little TLC goes a long way.
• Slow and Steady Wins the Race! If you have plants that need a little extra boost, apply some slow-release fertilizer. It’ll keep them nourished while you’re gone.
• Pest Patrol! Check for any signs of pests or disease before you leave. Nip those problems in the bud (pun intended!). No one wants to come home to a garden ravaged by aphids or powdery mildew.

Potted Plants: Little Guys Need Extra Attention

• Watering is Key! Soak those pots! Give them a good, deep watering before you head out.
• Location, Location, Location! Think about where your potted plants are located. Are they getting too much sun? Not enough? Move them to a spot where they’ll thrive while you’re away. This can be on the porch or in the shade to make sure that they have enough sunlight and water to survive your trip.
• Buddy System! If you have a really long trip planned, consider grouping your potted plants together and asking a neighbor to water them for you. A little help from a friend can make all the difference.

Gutters: Prevention is Better Than a Flood

• Clear Those Gutters! Clogged gutters are a recipe for disaster. They can lead to water damage to your roof, foundation, and even your basement. Cleaning them out before you leave is essential, especially if you’re heading into a rainy season.
• Bird Nests Beware! Keep an eye out for bird nests, too. They can cause serious blockages.
• Regular Checkups Save the Day! If you have trees near your home, make it a regular habit to inspect and clean your gutters. This simple task can save you from major headaches (and hefty repair bills) down the road. By making this step, you’re not only protecting your home, but also ensuring a safe environment around your property.

Final Checks and Arrangements: Securing Your Home and Coordinating Support

Okay, travel squad, we’re on the final countdown! You’ve prepped the house, inside and out, and now it’s time for the last layer of security – think of it as adding that extra sprig of parsley to your already-gourmet travel dish. These final steps are all about ensuring total peace of mind, so you can sip that piña colada (or whatever your vacation beverage of choice is) without a single worry about what’s happening back home. Let’s make sure everything is locked, loaded, and ready for your epic getaway.

First up, the obvious (but oh-so-important): doors and windows. I mean, duh, right? But seriously, walk around your entire house and give every single entry point a good ol’ fashioned shake and tug. Windows locked? Doors deadbolted? Even that rickety basement window you always forget about? Treat your home like Fort Knox. Consider reinforcing any vulnerable entry points with extra locks or security film.

Now, let’s talk about your trusty neighborhood watch. Letting your neighbors or friends know you’ll be gone is like having a secret agent team keeping an eye on things. Give them the lowdown on your trip, how long you’ll be gone, and most importantly, your contact information. Offer a spare key for emergencies – a burst pipe, a suspicious noise, or just to grab that package that accidentally showed up a week early. It’s all about building your own tiny, localized security force. Just make sure it’s someone you really trust, obviously.

Next, create the illusion of occupancy! No, I’m not suggesting you hire cardboard cutouts. A much simpler solution? Automatic timers for your indoor and outdoor lights. Set them to mimic your regular routines, turning lights on and off at different times each day. This simple trick can make it appear like someone’s home, deterring potential burglars and making your house less of a target.

And finally, the grand finale: The Checklist Check! Remember all those tasks we’ve talked about? Get out that list and go through it item by item. Did you unplug the toaster? Is the water heater turned off? Have you alerted the post office? It might seem tedious, but that final sweep can catch any last-minute oversights and prevent potential disasters. If you’re a paper person, print it out and physically tick each item off. If you’re more digital, a checklist app on your phone works wonders. The important thing is to make sure you don’t miss a thing.

So, are you back to ‘normal’ yet? It’s okay if the answer is a resounding “not even close!” We’re all figuring this out as we go. Just remember to check in with yourself, be kind to others (and yourself!), and keep adjusting your sails as the winds of life keep shifting.