[Xavier]

Originally Posted by mulligan

Actually, there are things that really should be done on an ongoing basis such as running the dishwasher and washing machine at least once a month (every 2 weeks is better) to keep the seals from drying out. Also, a good homewatch person will have weekly eyes on things like bugs, leaks, dropped packages, malfunctioning sprinklers etc....etc...etc. Much better than walking away and leaving the home closed up.

Actually, my mower (sends pictures and emails) and the neighbors keep an eye on the outside for us. We didn't even have to ask them. We have a friend who walks through about twice a month or when she's playing a golf course close-by.

As far as the dishwasher and washing machine goes, I really doubt that the water that stays in the pumps will evaporate in anything less than 6 months (probably a year). Heck, our toilets didn't go down a quarter of an inch while we were gone for 5 months. [Did I mention that I put a few drops of Clorox in each toilet bowl before I cover them with saran wrap?] Anyway, we've never had a problem.

We do leave the fridge on. Last year we also let the spa run as well. it only runs one and a half hours twice a day. It was as clean and sparkly when we returned as when we left. Our same (walk-through) friend checks the water level and tablets. Only once in 5 months did she add a little water and it really wasn't necessary even then. The tablets didn't need replenishment at all. In fact I had to take some out of the feeder when we got home.

If it makes the home owner feel more secure and comfortable, by all means hire a house watch person. Most do an excellent job and everyone needs to make a living. Helps keep that economy going too. My theory is: Don't make it more complicated than it really is!

Xavier