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      How to Prepare My Home for Vacation

      Understanding the steps to help ensure that your home is prepped and ready to go for when you go on vacation.

      Warranty Expectations

      How to Prepare Your Van Metre Home Before Vacation

      Planning a vacation? Whether you’re heading out for the weekend or an extended getaway, it’s important to protect your home while you're gone. This guide outlines proactive steps you can take, what you can expect from your warranty coverage, and how we support your peace of mind.

      What Is Covered: Sudden, unexpected failures of warrantable systems (e.g., HVAC malfunctions, plumbing issues from normal use). Defects in workmanship or materials within the warranty period and coverage scope. [HVAC]

      What to Expect: While you're away, Van Metre's warranty support remains available for eligible issues. Here’s what you can count on. Ongoing coverage based on your Limited Warranty guide. Helpful homeowner education materials to prevent unnecessary claims or out-of-warranty issues.

      How You Can Help: To reduce risks and ensure your warranty remains intact, follow this checklist before heading out:

      1. Turn Off the Water Supply
        1. Prevent leaks or water damage by shutting off your main water valve, especially for absences longer than a few days. 
      2. Set Thermostat Appropriately
        1. Summer: Set to ~75°F [Understanding My Ecobee]
        2. Winter: Set to ~65°F to prevent condensation, pipe freezing, or stress on HVAC systems.
      3. Maintain Healthy Humidity (30–50%)
        1. Use your thermostat, HVAC system, or a dehumidifier to control indoor humidity.
        2. This helps protect flooring, cabinets, and drywall from damage that’s typically not covered by warranty. [Understanding My Homes Humidifier]
      4. Ensure Dehumidifier Drains Automatically
        1. Route it to a sink or floor drain to avoid overflows and moisture buildup. [Understanding My Homes Dehumidifier]
      5. Clear Interior and Exterior Drains
        1. Clean floor drains, areaway drains, and gutters to prevent flooding; issues from clogged drains are typically not warrantable.
      6. Test Smoke Alarms & Replace Batteries
        1. Simple safety check with big benefits. Warranty excludes damage from preventable fire/smoke issues. [Understanding Smoke Detectors]
      7. Ask Someone to Check in Periodically
        1. They can spot potential issues early, collect mail, water plants, and ensure no visible signs of vacancy.