When the sun starts blazing and temperatures soar, many Arizona homeowners pack up and head for cold destinations. Leaving the “Valley of the Sun” for an extended period demands a strategic approach. It is different than shutting down a house for winter.
Knowing how to prepare your home for summer in Arizona is the key to preventing significant damage, from structural warping to catastrophic leaks. This guide outlines the crucial steps for a worry-free departure and a smooth return.
Why It’s Important to Shut Down a Phoenix Home Properly
Leaving your Phoenix home unattended during summer is riskier than most people realize. The dry heat, intense sunlight, and monsoon winds can all wreak havoc if your systems aren’t prepared. Here’s why a proper shutdown matters:
- Prevent heat damage to the home
- Reduce monsoon season risks
- To deter pest intrusion
- To avoid water leaks due to burst pipes
- To maintain security
The Phoenix Home Maintenance Checklist
Below is your complete step-by-step Phoenix home maintenance checklist for shutting down safely before the summer heat hits.
- Manage the water supply by turning off the main valve
- Flush and fill drain traps to keep sewer gases out
- Set the water heater to ‘vacation mode’
- Set the right temperature for your vacant home
- Unplug appliances and entertainment systems
- Set timers for lights
- Shut off the natural gas
- Remove all food and trash from the home
- Clean and defrost the refrigerator
- Seal all entry points
- Clean gutters and downspouts
- Close blinds and curtains
What Temperature to Leave a Vacant House in Summer in Arizona
This is the single most critical question for any homeowner leaving a vacant property in Arizona. You might think turning the cooling system off saves money, but the cost of heat-related repairs will far outweigh any energy savings.
The modest cooling is essential for structural integrity. Without it, indoor temperatures can exceed 120°F, causing wood framing to warp, drywall to crack, and window seals to shrink and fail. It can lead to leaks in plumbing fixtures. It is recommended to set the thermostat to 85°F-90°F.
Water System Security: Prevent Floods and Sewer Gas
Water shut off in Phoenix is a top priority for homeowners. An unattended leak can turn into a disaster in a matter of days. Locate and turn off the main water valve and run all faucets and flush all toilets. It relieves pressure in the lines.
Unlike cold climates, where the goal is to prevent freezing, in Arizona, the goal is to prevent evaporation, especially when shutting down the house for winter and returning in summer.
Comprehensive Security, Pest Protection
A home that appears lived-in is the best defense against intruders and potential squatter claims. Use light timers on a few interior lights. Ask a trusted neighbor to watch your home.
Furthermore, a home left unattended is an open invitation for Arizona’s hardy pests, from scorpions to rodents. So, don’t leave any food items anywhere in the house.
Professional Guidance and Assurance
You can follow the checklist and take all the necessary steps to ensure comprehensive protection for your home. But there’s still something that can be missing. The best thing to do before leaving your home is to get professional help.
We can identify existing vulnerabilities that could lead to a catastrophe while you are gone. Home inspectors can help you know what you should fix before leaving your home, so you can avoid major expenses while stepping back into your home.
Key Takeaways
Preparing your home for an Arizona summer might take a little effort, but it’s worth every minute. By following this Phoenix home maintenance checklist, you’ll protect your property from heat, humidity, pests, and storms, and return to a house that’s just as you left it.
Schedule a home inspection with Advantage Inspection Service and ensure that your desert home stays safe, secure, and ready for your return.
Frequently Asked Questions
What temperature should you leave a vacant house in summer in Phoenix?
Set the AC thermostat to 85°F to 90°F. This is a crucial step to protect the home’s structure and appliance seals from extreme heat damage.
Should I turn off my main water supply if I have a pool or landscape irrigation?
Yes, shut off the water supply to the interior to prevent significant leaks. If your pool or irrigation needs water, consult a plumber to install a separate shut-off valve that isolates the interior while keeping those outdoor systems running.
How do I prevent pests from entering my vacant Phoenix home?
Eliminate all food sources (perishables, open pantry items, trash). Seal any exterior cracks or gaps. Most importantly, maintain ongoing professional pest control services while you are away.
Why is it important to put water in drains and toilets before leaving?
The water in plumbing traps creates a seal that prevents noxious sewer gases and pests (like sewer rats) from entering the home. In dry Arizona heat, this water evaporates quickly, so you must refill the traps (about one gallon) and arrange for periodic refills (every 1-2 weeks) if you’re gone for an extended period.
How often should someone check on my vacant Phoenix home?
Weekly or bi-weekly checks are highly recommended. This ensures the AC is working (critical for structural protection), allows for refilling the plumbing traps, and meets most vacant home insurance inspection requirements, especially during monsoon season.