Retailers call it holiday creep, when winter holiday preparations start before the traditional holiday season.
But, when it comes to getting your home’s HVAC, plumbing and electrical systems ready for the holidays, it’s never too early to get the season in full swing.
Check out this list of home system prep that should creep in before the holiday season.
Prepare Your HVAC System for Holiday Comfort
Your heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system is responsible for keeping your home comfortable, and it’s essential to make sure it’s in top condition before the holiday rush.
- Change the Air Filters: With more guests in your home, the HVAC system will be working harder, so make sure to replace the air filters before the holidays. It’s a good idea to check the filters monthly and replace them if they appear dirty especially if holiday guests include holiday pets!
- Schedule a Professional Tune-Up: While you can perform basic maintenance yourself, it’s always wise to have a professional HVAC technician inspect your system before the holidays set in. A scheduled tune-up is always more convenient than a system breakdown.
- Check Your Thermostat Settings: Make sure your thermostat is functioning properly and is set to the temperature you prefer for the holiday season. Consider upgrading to a programmable or WIFI-enabled smart thermostat for greater energy efficiency and control over your heating schedule, especially if you’re hosting parties or traveling for the holidays.
- Inspect Vents and Ducts: Check that all vents are open and unobstructed by furniture, rugs, or draperies. Blocked vents can cause uneven heating, and proper airflow is especially important with extra people in the house. If you have a fireplace, check that the flue is clear to avoid airflow issues in the HVAC system.
Prepare Your Plumbing System for Holiday Demands
With more guests using your bathrooms, extra cooks in the kitchen, and the possibility of more laundry, your plumbing system will be under additional strain during the holidays.
- Inspect Pipes for Leaks: Check visible pipes in your kitchen, bathrooms, and basement for leaks or signs of wear. Even small leaks can lead to water damage if left unchecked. If you find anything concerning, call a plumber before the holiday season begins.
- Clear Drains: Clogged drains are a common issue during the holidays, especially with the extra cooking. To prevent backups, make sure all kitchen drains are clear of grease, food particles, and soap scum. In the bathroom, avoid flushing anything other than toilet paper, and never offer so-called flushable wipes in your bathrooms.
- Flush Your Water Heater: If you expect to have guests staying over or use a lot of hot water for showers, dishwashing, and laundry, make sure your water heater is in top condition. Flushing the tank to remove sediment build-up can improve efficiency and ensure a steady supply of hot water during high-demand periods.
Prepare Your Electrical System for Holiday Lights and Appliances
The holidays often mean decorating your home with festive lights, using extra appliances like air fryers and slow cookers for holiday meals, and hosting gatherings with multiple devices plugged in at once. To avoid electrical overloads or safety hazards, you’ll want to ensure that your electrical system is prepared.
- Check Circuit Breakers: Overloaded circuits are a common cause of electrical issues during the holidays. Check your circuit breakers to ensure they are in good working order. Make sure no circuits are tripped or close to being overloaded. You may want to have a professional electrician assess your system if you’re concerned about the load.
- Inspect Holiday Lights: Inspect all your holiday lights for frayed cords, broken bulbs, or damaged sockets. Replace any lights that are damaged, and make sure you’re using lights rated for indoor or outdoor use as appropriate.
- Use Extension Cords Safely: If you need to use extension cords for lighting or other holiday decorations, make sure they are rated for the devices you’re plugging in. Avoid overloading extension cords, and don’t connect multiple cords together. Never run cords under rugs or furniture, as this can pose a fire hazard.
- Consider an Electrical Panel Upgrade: If your home often experiences tripped circuit breakers or has older wiring, consider upgrading your electrical panel. An electrician can assess your home’s electrical load and recommend upgrades if necessary to handle the additional demands of the holiday season.
- Install Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors: With extra cooking, heating, and lighting, it’s essential to check that your smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors are working properly. Test them by pressing the test button and replacing the batteries if needed. You don’t want to discover a malfunction when the house is full of guests.
General Holiday Prep Tips
- Stock Up on Batteries: With so many gadgets and holiday decorations running, batteries are in high demand during the holidays. Make sure to stock up on common battery sizes like AA, AAA, and 9V for smoke detectors and remotes.
- Create an Emergency Kit: Holiday season mishaps can happen, from electrical issues to plumbing problems. Having a basic emergency kit — including a flashlight, first aid supplies, and a few essential tools — can help you respond to minor problems quickly.
Proactive Home Prep with Acree Plumbing, Air & Electric
Like it or not, the holiday season seems to make an appearance earlier each year. And, while you might not be ready for the holiday music and retail sales, your home’s plumbing, HVAC and electrical system can always benefit from the proactive holiday prep.
At Acree Plumbing, Air & Electric, our team is always ready to tackle your Tampa area home care needs no matter the season. Call us today!
