Planning a summer vacation is exciting

Planning a summer vacation is exciting, but it’s crucial to prepare your home before you leave for travel and fun! Taking these few simple steps can ensure the safety of your property and give you peace of mind. Use this to guide you through the process of securing your home and belongings, focusing on your AC unit, appliances, and outdoor furniture.

Exterior : Protecting Your AC Unit
  • Remove any sticks or limbs from your outside unit. This will protect your system in the event of a powerful storm that causes wind to toss debris around.
  • Securing Outdoor Furniture:
  • Bring inside any outdoor furniture, grills, or loose items that could become projectiles in high winds.
  • Anchor or tie down larger furniture pieces using straps or ropes to prevent them from blowing away.
  • Store cushions and accessories in a safe, dry place to protect them from rain and wind damage.
  • Reinforcing Windows and Doors
  • Install storm shutters or use plywood to protect windows and glass doors from strong winds and debris.
Properly securing these vulnerable areas can help prevent damage caused by storms.

Interior: Thermostat and Surge Protectors

  • Adjust thermostat settings to conserve energy and maintain a comfortable environment. Set your AC thermostat to a temperature that will keep your home comfortable but not Arctic. Let it channel the beach tone by dialing it to a refreshing 85°F while you are gone. This way, your house can keep its cool while you’re enjoying your time away.
  • Invest in surge protectors for valuable devices and appliances, including your AC unit.
  • Unplug non-essential electronics: Before leaving, unplug any non-essential electronics and appliances to prevent them from potential power surges or electrical damage during storms. This includes TVs, computers, chargers, and small kitchen appliances.
  • Frozen Treats for Your Fridge: Your refrigerator and freezer can join in on the summer fun too! Adjust the fridge to a cool 38°F and the freezer to a frosty 0°F. This way, you can keep your popsicles and ice cream perfectly chilled while you’re out chasing sunsets and enjoying the summer breezes. Bonus Tip that we always seem to forget: Ditch the old… clean out your fridge before you head on your trip as the last trash day before you leave approaches. This way don’t come back home to rotten food in the trash can or molding in the fridge
  • Water Heroes to the Rescue: Be a superhero for your home by installing a water shut-off valve. It’s essential to protect your house from potential water leaks or pipe bursts. The valve will save the day by automatically shutting off the water supply in case of emergencies, giving you peace of mind while you’re out enjoying the summer delights.
With these tips, your home will be ready to embrace the summer spirit while you embark on your vacation adventures. Soak up the sun, feel the sand between your toes, and return to a refreshed and ready-to-enjoy home sweet home! Happy summer travels from your friends at Hammond Services. Did you notice AC is not working at its prime? Give us a call before you head out on your vacation so we can do a thorough evaluation of your unit to ensure you are in tip-top travel shape. Better Call Hammond!
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Living in areas like Austell, Stockbridge, Newnan, and Griffin means enjoying a variety of home styles, from charming older houses to modern builds. However, regardless of your home's age, electrical outlets can sometimes stop working, leaving you scratching your head. Here are some common reasons why an outlet might stop functioning, and how Hammond Services can help with electrical issue resolution and electrical safety inspections. 1. Tripped Circuit Breaker One of the most common causes of a non-working outlet is a tripped circuit breaker. Circuit breakers are designed to protect your home from electrical overloads. If you’ve been using multiple high-powered devices like space heaters, hair dryers, or kitchen appliances in one area, the breaker might have tripped to prevent overheating. Locate your breaker box, look for a switch that’s out of alignment, and reset it by flipping it off and then back on. If the breaker trips again, it’s time to call a professional to assess the circuit’s load capacity and ensure electrical safety in your home. 2. GFCI Outlet Reset Needed If your outlet is near water—like in kitchens, bathrooms, or outdoor areas—there may be an issue with a Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI) outlet. GFCI outlets are designed to cut power when they detect moisture or a surge, protecting you from electrical shocks. These outlets have a reset button that pops out when they trip. Simply press the button to reset it. If resetting doesn’t restore power, the GFCI itself may be faulty, or there could be another electrical issue in the circuit. For additional tips on improving your home’s electrical safety and efficiency, check out this article from Hammond Services: What Electricians Can Do for Homeowners. 3. Loose Wiring or Connections Outlets can stop working due to loose or damaged wiring, especially in older homes. Over time, wires can degrade, leading to poor connections that may cause the outlet to fail. This electrical issue can create a safety hazard, including the risk of electrical fires. A professional inspection can identify and resolve these problems, ensuring your home remains safe and functional. 4. Faulty Outlet Over time, outlets can wear out, particularly if frequently used. If your outlet has been heavily used or is outdated, it may simply need replacing. Frequent plugging and unplugging can cause wear and tear, eventually leading to failure. Hammond Services provides reliable outlet replacement services, prioritizing electrical safety in every upgrade. 5. Hidden Issues If you’ve checked the breaker and reset your GFCI but the outlet still doesn’t work, there could be deeper wiring issues at play. Sometimes the problem isn’t with the outlet itself but lies deeper within your electrical system. Faulty wiring, overloaded circuits, or even pest damage can cause disruptions. If your outlet still doesn’t work after checking the breaker and GFCI, it’s best to have a professional electrician diagnose the electrical issue and ensure your home’s electrical safety. For more detailed information on home electrical systems, you can refer to the U.S. Energy Information Administration's guide on Electricity Explained . Call Hammond Services Today! If your outlet isn’t working in Austell, Stockbridge, Newnan, or Griffin, Hammond Services is here to help! We offer a wide range of residential electrical services, including free home electrical evaluations, to ensure your electrical system is safe and efficient. Contact our licensed electricians for reliable and affordable solutions. Better Call Hammond today! Or fill out a service request to get started.
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