How to Prepare Your Appliances Before a Long Vacation

## Pre-Vacation Appliance Checklist

Nothing ruins a vacation like coming home to a flooded kitchen or spoiled food. Here's how to prepare your appliances before you leave.

Refrigerator & Freezer

Short trips (1-2 weeks): - Set temperature slightly colder to account for not being opened - Check that ice maker is working properly - Remove any food that will expire during your trip - Clean out leftovers

Long trips (2+ weeks): - Consider emptying perishables and turning off the ice maker - Leave the refrigerator running to avoid mold and odors - Leave a box of baking soda inside - Clean condenser coils before leaving

Pro tip: Place a few ice cubes in a zip-lock bag in the freezer. If they're melted when you return, you'll know power was lost.

Range & Cooktop

• Ensure all burners are completely off
• Double-check the oven is off
• Clean the cooktop (dried spills can attract pests)
• If you have a gas range, consider turning off the gas supply

Dishwasher

• Run an empty cycle with dishwasher cleaner before leaving
• Leave the door slightly ajar to prevent odors and mold
• Turn off the water supply to prevent potential leaks

Ice Maker

• For extended trips, turn off the ice maker
• Empty the ice bin (ice absorbs freezer odors over time)
• Turn off water supply to the ice maker

General Tips

Water supply Consider turning off the main water supply or at least the supplies to: - Ice maker - Dishwasher - Washing machine

This prevents potential water damage from a supply line failure.

Electrical - Unplug small appliances - Consider a smart plug for lamps (to make the home look occupied) - Don't unplug the refrigerator unless absolutely necessary

Climate control - Keep the home at a reasonable temperature to prevent humidity issues - In summer, set AC no higher than 85°F to protect wine coolers and appliances

When You Return

1. Check the ice cube test bag
2. Inspect for any water leaks
3. Smell the refrigerator (odors indicate power loss)
4. Run water through the ice maker before using ice
5. Run a rinse cycle on the dishwasher

Peace of Mind

• Ensure appliances are running
• Notice any water leaks early
• Alert you to any issues

A few minutes of preparation can save you from coming home to an appliance emergency. Safe travels!