As you are getting ready to head off on your summer holiday and escape Dubai’s heat; Don’t forget to prepare your home with some of the below to-dos, to prevent being greeted t with any unpleasant surprises when you’re back.
Turning off the water supply
Best way to ensure you have no water leaks or worst a flood; is to turn off the water supply to your entire home. Now this may not be an option if you live in a villa or townhouse, as you need water supply to maintain your garden; you can of course just turn off your internal faucet from the valve below the sink, bidet sprays from the valve at the bottom of the flexible pipes and last but not the least the valves for your dishwasher and washing machine.
If you live in an apartment, you can ask your building security to turn off the main water valve to your apartment.
Leaving your ACs switched on during the summer
Most of us want to conserve energy and save on utility bills, and do not want to leave their ACs on while on holiday. Well it is important to note that summers in Dubai are hot and humid, which is a recipe for molds. You do not want to return back home with all your leather furnishing, footwear and expensive bags all moldy and ruined. Moreover, molds in your home are dangerous to your health and can cause respiratory issues.
We recommend leaving your ACs on at 24 degrees and ideally on a timer for at least 8 – 12 hours in the day. Better, upgrade to a smart thermostat which you can easily control remotely while you are on holiday.
Turn Off the Appliances
Before you leave, make sure to unplug electronics around the house that don’t need power while you’re gone. Not only will it save you on your DEWA bill, it will lower the risk of an electrical fire. Unplug things like routers, televisions, computers or unused chargers.
Regularly Cleaned Fridge
Clean your kitchen and fridge of perishables like vegetables and fruits. Get rid of anything that can decompose and stink your entire home. Lastly don’t forget to empty your trash out before you leave.
Locked Doors & Windows
Right before you leave, it’s wise to check all the possible entry points around your home. Make sure you haven’t left any seldom-used doors or windows unlocked or cracked open. It’s easy to forget about that side door that rarely gets used.
Friendly Neighbors
If you are away all throughout summer, it is a good idea to ask a trusted neighbor or a family friend to pass by your home often just to make sure there are no issues. Before you travel, please update all your contact details with your community or building security in case they need to reach you.
If things go wrong, get in touch with Octopus for a handyman or maintenance service.
