Preparing Your Newnan Home for Holiday Travel: Tips from Hammond Services

The holiday season is a time for family, friends, and festive celebrations. Whether you’re traveling to visit loved ones or embarking on a winter getaway, it’s essential to prepare your home before leaving. A little preparation can prevent unexpected problems and ensure your return is stress-free.
At Hammond Services, we specialize in HVAC, plumbing, and electrical solutions in Newnan, GA, and we’ve put together a guide to help you get your home ready before you hit the road.


1. Optimize Your HVAC System for Energy Savings

Your heating system doesn’t need to work overtime while you’re away, but you also don’t want to return to a freezing home.
- Set the thermostat: Adjust your thermostat to a lower but safe temperature—around 55–60°F—to save energy while preventing pipes from freezing.
-Smart thermostats: If you have a smart thermostat, set it to vacation mode or adjust it remotely while you’re away. Need a smart thermostat installed? Hammond Services can help with that!
-Schedule HVAC maintenance: Ensure your system is in good condition before leaving to avoid potential breakdowns. Regular maintenance is key, especially during winter when heating systems are heavily relied upon.


2. Prevent Plumbing Problems While You’re Away

A plumbing issue can quickly turn into a disaster if left unattended while you’re traveling.
- Inspect for leaks: Check for any visible leaks in faucets, toilets, and pipes. Fixing them now can prevent bigger issues later.
- Shut off the water supply: If you’re going to be away for an extended period, consider shutting off the main water valve. Hammond Services can assist with this if needed.
- Drain outdoor hoses: Disconnect and drain garden hoses to prevent frozen pipes.


3. Safeguard Your Home’s Electrical System

Electrical issues are not only inconvenient but can also pose serious safety risks.
- Unplug electronics: Unplug non-essential devices and appliances to save energy and reduce fire risks.
- Use timers for lights: Install timers or smart plugs for your indoor and outdoor lights to create the appearance of someone being home.
- Inspect your electrical panel: If you’ve noticed tripped breakers or flickering lights recently, have Hammond Services perform an electrical inspection to ensure everything is functioning safely.


4. Secure Your Home

While Hammond Services focuses on HVAC, plumbing, and electrical, home security plays a vital role in your peace of mind.
- Install surge protectors: Protect sensitive electronics and appliances from power surges.
- Check smoke and carbon monoxide detectors: Ensure these devices are working properly before leaving. If you need replacements or upgrades, we can handle the installation.


5. Plan for Your Return

Make your homecoming as comfortable as possible with a few final preparations:
- Clean your HVAC filters: Dirty filters can reduce efficiency and indoor air quality.
- Schedule a tune-up: Before leaving, schedule a maintenance visit with Hammond Services to ensure your heating system is running efficiently.
- Plumbing winterization: If freezing weather is expected, let us help you winterize your plumbing system to avoid burst pipes.


Why Choose Hammond Services?

With decades of experience serving Newnan, GA, and the surrounding areas, Hammond Services is your trusted partner for HVAC, plumbing, and electrical needs. Our team is committed to providing top-notch service to keep your home running smoothly year-round.


Contact Hammond Services Before You Travel

Ensure your home is ready for holiday travel by partnering with Hammond Services. From HVAC tune-ups and plumbing inspections to electrical upgrades, we’ve got you covered.

Schedule your service today to enjoy a worry-free holiday season, knowing your home is in expert hands.
Prepare your home now and come back to comfort and peace of mind after your holiday travels!

By Charles Thompson April 3, 2025
Summers in Georgia can be intense. Brutal heat and high humidity often make your home feel like a sauna. With air conditioning demands soaring, this can overload the power grid, leading to brownouts, partial power reductions that dim your lights and shut down non-essential appliances. While brownouts aren't as severe as blackouts, they can still cause disruptions, especially during Georgia’s hottest months. For tips on how to prepare for power outages, including stockpiling essential items, check out the Power Outage Preparedness Tips from Georgia Electric Membership Corporation . The Challenge of Summer Brownouts in Georgia Brownouts occur when the electrical grid becomes overloaded, and utility providers reduce the voltage temporarily to avoid a complete power failure. This is especially common during Georgia’s brutal heatwaves and thunderstorms, two weather events we see all too often in the summer. With the extreme heat, high humidity, and unpredictable storms, having reliable power becomes crucial for Georgia homeowners. Although a short power dip might seem minor, brownouts that last for hours can have serious consequences. Here’s why: 1. Health Risks for Pets and Babies The heat can be dangerous, particularly for pets and young children. Without air conditioning or fans, temperatures inside your home can rise quickly. Pets, especially those with thick fur, are at risk of heatstroke and dehydration. Babies, who have a harder time regulating their body temperature, are also vulnerable to overheating, which can lead to serious health issues. 2. Impact on Medical Devices For people who rely on powered medical devices like oxygen concentrators, CPAP machines, or refrigerated medications, brownouts can be life-threatening. The high humidity in Georgia can make respiratory conditions worse, making it even more critical to maintain a steady power supply for medical needs. 3. Food Spoilage & Home Disruptions During a brownout, refrigerators and freezers may not run at full power, which can cause food to spoil more quickly. Perishable items like dairy, meat, and seafood can become unsafe to eat in just a few hours without consistent cooling. This can lead to wasted groceries and potential health risks if spoiled food is consumed. Investing in a backup generator can help keep your refrigerator running and prevent costly food loss during extended power disruptions. Preparing for Power Disruptions Year-Round Although summer brownouts are a common issue, power disruptions can also occur during other seasons. For example, winter blackouts in Georgia can bring dangerous cold temperatures and heating system problems. For more insights on preparing for power outages throughout the year, check out our blog on Generac Generator Maintenance: Keeping the Power On When It Matters Most to ensure you're ready for any unexpected disruptions. How to Prepare for Brownouts in Georgia The best way to protect your home from the effects of summer brownouts is to prepare in advance. One of the most effective solutions is investing in a generato r. Whether you choose a whole-home standby generator that automatically kicks in when power drops, or a portable generator to keep essential appliances running, having a backup power source can keep you out of the dark when the grid goes down. Here’s how you can be ready: Backup Generators: A whole-home generator is a reliable way to keep essential systems like air conditioning, refrigeration, and medical devices powered during brownouts. These generators automatically turn on when the power goes out, ensuring your home stays functional. Portable Generators: If a whole-home generator isn’t in your budget, a portable generator can still power critical appliances, like your fridge and AC, during a brownout. Energy Conservation: Being mindful of energy usage, like running appliances during off-peak hours or keeping blinds closed to block out heat, can help reduce stress on the power grid. Electrical Inspections & Repairs: It’s also a good idea to have an electrical inspection done to make sure your home’s wiring can handle the additional load. If there are any issues, electrical repairs can ensure your system is ready for whatever the summer brings. Stay Ahead of Summer Outages in Georgia Summer brownouts are a reality here in Georgia, but with the right preparation, you can minimize the impact on your home and family. Investing in a generator, practicing energy-saving habits, and scheduling an electrical inspection will help you stay cool, keep your loved ones safe, and avoid the frustration of power interruptions. Don’t wait until the next heatwave. Take action now to stay powered all summer long. Ready to Stay Powered All Summer? Don’t let summer brownouts disrupt your comfort or safety. For expert advice on generators, electrical inspections, and electrical repairs in Griffin, Newnan, Stockbridge, or nearby areas, Hammond Services here to help! We’ll ensure your home stays cool, secure, and fully operational, no matter what the weather brings. Contact us today to schedule your services and enjoy a worry-free, comfortable home this season!
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Winter blackouts, especially during ice storms, can bring life to a standstill, leaving families vulnerable to freezing temperatures and disrupted routines. Ice storms are particularly dangerous, as freezing rain can build up on power lines and trees, causing outages and hazardous conditions. Losing power for just 4 to 5 hours in these conditions can create serious challenges, especially for families with pets, babies, or individuals relying on medical devices. Impact on Those in the Home Pets are highly sensitive to temperature drops, particularly for smaller or short-haired breeds. Without heat, they may struggle to stay warm, risking illness. To prepare, keep extra blankets or bedding for them and consider portable, pet-safe heating options. Ensuring your pets remain comfortable during an outage is crucial for their health and safety. For babies, maintaining a warm environment is essential for their well-being. Without heat, dress them in layers and use portable heating pads. Having these preparations ready ensures your little one stays safe and comfortable during a power outage. For individuals who rely on medical devices, power outages can be a serious concern. Devices like oxygen concentrators or CPAP machines require uninterrupted power. Additionally, medications that need refrigeration must be protected. Backup power solutions, such as battery systems or whole home generators, can help avoid emergencies during extended outages. The Importance of Knowing Your Power Status Staying informed about your power status is a vital part of winter preparedness here in Georgia. Many utility companies offer apps and alerts that let you track outages, assess restoration times, and plan accordingly. This information helps you decide if relocating temporarily or relying on backup power is necessary. Generac Generators: A Reliable Solution Investing in a Generac generator is one of the most effective ways to safeguard your Austell, Griffin, Newnan, and Stockbridge home during winter outages. These generators provide continuous power, keeping heating systems, lights, and essential devices up and running. With a whole-home generator, you can maintain comfort and security for your family, pets, and medical needs, even during prolonged outages. Call Hammond Services today or fill out our contact form to explore backup power solutions like Generac generators, and keep your home safe, warm, and ready for any storm.
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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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