Our first time closing our villages home

[Surfrat2]

Is there a checklist of what to do to close a patio villa down for about two months? I’ve heard of shutting the water supply and the breaker to the water heater. Is there anything else anyone can suggest? We will be away for about 2 months. Thanks in advance

[Toymeister]

Is there a checklist of what to do to close a patio villa down for about two months? I’ve heard of shutting the water supply and the breaker to the water heater. Is there anything else anyone can suggest? We will be away for about 2 months. Thanks in advance
Cover toilet with Saran wrap. This keeps the water from evaporating. If it does you will have sewer gas venting directly into your home.

[Bill14564]

We turn off water and the breaker like you mention but also empty ice bins and turn off the ice maker.

[Keefelane66]

All suggestions previously stated excellent may I also recommend HUMIDISTAT wired at thermostat temp set 80° and humidity set 60%> been doing this for 10 years no problems…

[mrf0151]

If ONLY two months away, then really you only have to set the HVAC at 80 and lock the doors. Anything else is a waste of time and not necessary.

[Bill14564]

If ONLY two months away, then really you only have to set the HVAC at 80 and lock the doors. Anything else is a waste of time and not necessary.

Waste of time unless a seal in your toilet goes bad and you get billed for 25,000 extra gals/month.

Waste of time unless the power goes out for long enough for the ice in the freezer to melt and run out the door.

Waste of time unless the water in the toilet evaporates and you come home to a house that stinks like sewer gas.

Turning off the hot water heater is like setting the AC to a higher temp (didn't think about that), it's very easy to do and saves a little electricity.

[retiredguy123]

Some people will tell you to have someone come in, turn on the water, and flush the toilets. If you have someone come in, I would tell them to leave the water off. If the toilets are covered to prevent evaporation, they will be fine for 2 months. You will have peace of mind knowing that you won't have a water leak.

[Bogie Shooter]

From UF extension office.
https://blogs.ifas.ufl.edu/lakeco/files/2017/10/Closing-Your-Seasonal-Home.pdf

[dewilson58]

We turn off water and the breaker like you mention but also empty ice bins and turn off the ice maker.

Agree.

Our house-watch people use to put a few cubes in a bowl...........if the cubes melted and became one.........the food in the refrig/freezer is probably bad.

Never happened, but a cute step.

[dewilson58]

If ONLY two months away, then really you only have to set the HVAC at 80 and lock the doors. Anything else is a waste of time and not necessary.

:ohdear::ohdear::ohdear:

[retiredguy123]

From UF extension office.
https://blogs.ifas.ufl.edu/lakeco/files/2017/10/Closing-Your-Seasonal-Home.pdf
Did you notice that they didn't tell you to turn off the water? To me, that is the most important thing to do. And, you definitely don't want to cover the drains with duct tape if you leave the water on. A small faucet leak can overflow a sink.

[retiredguy123]

Is there a checklist of what to do to close a patio villa down for about two months? I’ve heard of shutting the water supply and the breaker to the water heater. Is there anything else anyone can suggest? We will be away for about 2 months. Thanks in advance
I would suggest that you test the water supply valve well in advance of leaving to make sure that you can turn it off when you leave. Don't wait until the last day.

[Surfrat2]

Cover toilet with Saran wrap. This keeps the water from evaporating. If it does you will have sewer gas venting directly into your home.

Thank you!

[Surfrat2]

Thank you all for the quick replies!

[Bogie Shooter]

Did you notice that they didn't tell you to turn off the water? To me, that is the most important thing to do. And, you definitely don't want to cover the drains with duct tape if you leave the water on. A small faucet leak can overflow a sink.

Actually I didn’t read the info…..just provided for OP.

[tophcfa]

My list includes turning off water heater breaker and main water supply, turn A/C to 81 degrees, unplug all sensitive electronic equipment that lightning could fry, turn off ice maker, double check that refrigerator and freezer doors are tightly closed, check all settings on both irrigation system and pool and calibrate appropriately, make sure all windows are tightly closed and doors are locked, double check you have no trash in the house or have left any fruit out on the counter like bananas, and hurricane proof anything outdoors as best as possible if you won’t be returning before the prime storm season (mid July through mid October). During the humid summer months I also set a couple of dehumidifiers at 60 percent relative humidity and drain them into a sink or shower as cheap insurance against mold in case the A/C system fails. For only two months I wouldn’t worry about sealing drains but if gone longer that is a very good idea.

We leave a cup of frozen water in the freezer with a coin on top. When you return make sure the coin is still on top, or your food very well might be bad. I also leave the golf carts with a full tank of ethanol free gas and put a trickle charger on the batteries. Most importantly, remember to leave some beer and wine in the freezer so you can celebrate when you return to your Villages home : ) Safe Travles

[Michael G.]

Do all the above, but most importantly is having someone that is trustworthy do
a walk though, not use opening the door and closing it

[MrFlorida]

All of the above, and we also disconnect the garage door opener.

[banjobob]

Add bleach to toilet bowl to prevent mold the water must remain to prevent odor from traps

[La lamy]

My list includes turning off water heater breaker and main water supply, turn A/C to 81 degrees, unplug all sensitive electronic equipment that lightning could fry, turn off ice maker, double check that refrigerator and freezer doors are tightly closed, check all settings on both irrigation system and pool and calibrate appropriately, make sure all windows are tightly closed and doors are locked, double check you have no trash in the house or have left any fruit out on the counter like bananas, and hurricane proof anything outdoors as best as possible if you won’t be returning before the prime storm season (mid July through mid October). During the humid summer months I also set a couple of dehumidifiers at 60 percent relative humidity and drain them into a sink or shower as cheap insurance against mold in case the A/C system fails. For only two months I wouldn’t worry about sealing drains but if gone longer that is a very good idea.

We leave a cup of frozen water in the freezer with a coin on top. When you return make sure the coin is still on top, or your food very well might be bad. I also leave the golf carts with a full tank of ethanol free gas and put a trickle charger on the batteries. Most importantly, remember to leave some beer and wine in the freezer so you can celebrate when you return to your Villages home : ) Safe Travles
I think you meant FRIDGE. Beer and wine in the freezer for 2 months would not be good.

I would also recommend a smart Wifi thermometer so you can check online the temperature and humidity in the house. A wifi camera or 2 can also help you see what's going on inside and outside your house (especially during storms). You also need mowing service established and someone with a key to deal with any issues.

Have a nice trip!

[Sandy and Ed]

Did you notice that they didn't tell you to turn off the water? To me, that is the most important thing to do. And, you definitely don't want to cover the drains with duct tape if you leave the water on. A small faucet leak can overflow a sink.
How true. Turn off the water (AND be sure to shut off the breaker for the hot water heater). I also turn off the water feeds for the toilets and sinks (probably overkill).

[Sandy and Ed]

My list includes turning off water heater breaker and main water supply, turn A/C to 81 degrees, unplug all sensitive electronic equipment that lightning could fry, turn off ice maker, double check that refrigerator and freezer doors are tightly closed, check all settings on both irrigation system and pool and calibrate appropriately, make sure all windows are tightly closed and doors are locked, double check you have no trash in the house or have left any fruit out on the counter like bananas, and hurricane proof anything outdoors as best as possible if you won’t be returning before the prime storm season (mid July through mid October). During the humid summer months I also set a couple of dehumidifiers at 60 percent relative humidity and drain them into a sink or shower as cheap insurance against mold in case the A/C system fails. For only two months I wouldn’t worry about sealing drains but if gone longer that is a very good idea.

We leave a cup of frozen water in the freezer with a coin on top. When you return make sure the coin is still on top, or your food very well might be bad. I also leave the golf carts with a full tank of ethanol free gas and put a trickle charger on the batteries. Most importantly, remember to leave some beer and wine in the freezer so you can celebrate when you return to your Villages home : ) Safe Travles
Excellent. We have a checklist by room listing what needs to be done in each room. Then simply check off item as they are completed. A couple you mentioned I’ll need to add.

[Normal]

It may not hurt to leave a couple ceiling fans on at low and stop the mail and the paper. In addition, trim your bushes and plants back hard, you may be pleased with the results two months later.

[bowlingal]

cover all drains in shower. bugs can come up through the holes

[Garywt]

When we are gone for a month or two we do many of the things above, bleach, plastic wrap, masking tape on drains, shut water off, flip breaker for water heater, turn ac to 80 or so and lock garage door.

When we leave for 6 months we do all the above plus put table and chairs etc in garage, unplug tv’s and turn a few breakers off like the oven and microwave.

We have never had anyone come to check on the house.

[teamd]

I would also suggest you contact community watch section of your community development district office. Telephone number is 352-753-4508. They have service for a couple of dollars a week that someone will stop by your house and walk around and check all doors and windows. They do that I believe three times a week they will contact you if they see anything wrong.

[thevillager1988]

As the last thing you do, before covering the toilets with saran (which is an excellent idea), clean them. This will ensure you don't get the dark ring around the water line.

[Txcottage]

If ONLY two months away, then really you only have to set the HVAC at 80 and lock the doors. Anything else is a waste of time and not necessary.

We have been gone for 3 months at a time wo wrapping toilets, etc with no problems. Just make sure counters are clean, perishable food disposed of, disposer and dishwasher clean, set thermostat to 80.

[Normal]

Add bleach to toilet bowl to prevent mold the water must remain to prevent odor from traps

It reminds me of putting a small amount of antifreeze in the garage toilet up north for winter. “An ounce of prevention is worth a pound in cure.”

[mkjelenbaas]

Is there a checklist of what to do to close a patio villa down for about two months? I’ve heard of shutting the water supply and the breaker to the water heater. Is there anything else anyone can suggest? We will be away for about 2 months. Thanks in advance
I made up my own.

[jtjigs]

I read that you should NOT turn off a gas water heater, due to having a pilot etc... Can anyone confirm what they have been doing the the case of a gas water heater? IF you turn off the water, you need to do something with the water heater to prevent burn out

[MrFlorida]

I read that you should NOT turn off a gas water heater, due to having a pilot etc... Can anyone confirm what they have been doing the the case of a gas water heater? IF you turn off the water, you need to do something with the water heater to prevent burn out

Turn your HWH to VAC if you have that setting, if not, just turn to PILOT.

[tophcfa]

I think you meant FRIDGE. Beer and wine in the freezer for 2 months would not be good.

I would also recommend a smart Wifi thermometer so you can check online the temperature and humidity in the house. A wifi camera or 2 can also help you see what's going on inside and outside your house (especially during storms). You also need mowing service established and someone with a key to deal with any issues.

Have a nice trip!

Good catch, meant to say fridge. All that fancy remote smart WiFi monitoring stuff is great if you pay for internet services year round even though your not there. Then there are the monthly fees required by many of those services. We have never had any issues with our “not-smart” home.

[tophcfa]

Add bleach to toilet bowl to prevent mold the water must remain to prevent odor from traps

Never thought of that. We are trained to never let bleach go down a drain because all our homes before the Villages had a septic system and bleach will kill the good bacteria in the holding tank that naturally breaks down the waste. We also never had the luxury of an electric pig (garbage disposal) before our Villages home. Will add that to the list.

[merrymini]

If your house is brand new, do not turn off the water for the first year. If something goes wrong, the house is under warranty and it would be fixed on their dime otherwise all of the above.

[Bilyclub]

Good catch, meant to say fridge. All that fancy remote smart WiFi monitoring stuff is great if you pay for internet services year round even though your not there. Then there are the monthly fees required by many of those services. We have never had any issues with our “not-smart” home.

No fees to monitor Eufy cameras, most internet thermostats, LG appliances, and wifi light bulbs. Yes, internet service is a fee, but well worth it.

[JIMQ3100]

I read that you should NOT turn off a gas water heater, due to having a pilot etc... Can anyone confirm what they have been doing the the case of a gas water heater? IF you turn off the water, you need to do something with the water heater to prevent burn out
When I leave for extended time, I shut off my pilot and gas to the house or gas to heater. Don't forget to change or hold the mail. I have cameras in the house, I do check to ensure the camera's are on electricity and not on battery.

[Bruce3055]

If your house is brand new, do not turn off the water for the first year. If something goes wrong, the house is under warranty and it would be fixed on their dime otherwise all of the above.

Wow you could get it fixed maybe but would stilll be responsible for a huge water bill and warranty may not cover water damage or your inconvenience of a water damaged and moldy home

[retiredguy123]

If your house is brand new, do not turn off the water for the first year. If something goes wrong, the house is under warranty and it would be fixed on their dime otherwise all of the above.
So, if your house and it's contents are totally ruined by a water leak while you are gone for several months, you will expect your home warranty to reimburse you? I don't think so. You may get reimbusement from your homeowners policy if you have special coverage for a vacant house.

[MisterPratt]

Water will evaporate on the drains lines in the showers and sinks which then can introduce sewer smell into the house. Fill these traps with recreational anti-freeze.

[PVR]

We turn off the water supply our toilets flush then add white vinegar. Sops any mold and doesn't evaporate. Put vinegar in all our sink drains too..
Also turn off the ice maker and empty ice. Put a trickle charge on golf cart. Turn thermostat to 80 and have a humistat. We also have someone check the house weekly for insurance reasons.

[La lamy]

So, if your house and it's contents are totally ruined by a water leak while you are gone for several months, you will expect your home warranty to reimburse you? I don't think so. You may get reimbusement from your homeowners policy if you have special coverage for a vacant house.

Agreed and even then, insurance won't help if you can't prove you had person checking the house regularly. Mine was once monthly.

[RustyN]

http://youtu.be/uQkQF2yaJoA

[Robnlaura]

I would use Alexa or some other app to turn on lights at night and the ac every week for a couple of hours..

[Dexterconfetti]

Water has a high heat capacity, very slow to change temperature. Fill spaces in freezer with frozen water bottles, put water filled bottles in fridge spaces. Cooling motor will cycle much less often.

[JGibson]

When I leave for extended time, I shut off my pilot and gas to the house or gas to heater. Don't forget to change or hold the mail. I have cameras in the house, I do check to ensure the camera's are on electricity and not on battery.

How do you control the temperature in your home if your turn off gas to A/C handler?

I would imagine during summertime you will end with mold with all that humidity.

[pikeselectric]

Is there a checklist of what to do to close a patio villa down for about two months? I’ve heard of shutting the water supply and the breaker to the water heater. Is there anything else anyone can suggest? We will be away for about 2 months. Thanks in advance

Hi there! Turning off breakers can help while out of town, especially during the summer months when we expect the most inclement weather. Be sure to unplug electronics and appliances you do not want to leave susceptible to surges from nearby storms/lighting/surges. This includes computers, TVs, etc. We offer whole home surge protection for your Villages home to protect your home's major appliances in case of a surge. Hopefully we can interest you in that. However, turning off the breaker is a great practice for certain appliances such as the water heater. We have emergency after hours service as well in case there is an issue at your home while you are away :smiley: Casandra with Pike's Electric (352) 748-6251

[NYMAN]

plastic wrap over the toilets

[RICH1]

Thank you all for the quick replies!
A WI-FI Thermostat is a great way to save money controlling your settings… Wi-Fi sprinkler timer also is a huge benefit to
Control your sprinkler settings… from anywhere in the world .

[Tustin714]

My wife asked me if anyone in this thread commented on "dust" upon returning to the home after an extended leave but I don't see any comments about that. Do you hire a cleaning crew/maid to come in before you arrive/once you arrive, or is it not particularly dusty (assuming a clean before you left) because there isn't much to cause dust?

[retiredguy123]

My wife asked me if anyone in this thread commented on "dust" upon returning to the home after an extended leave but I don't see any comments about that. Do you hire a cleaning crew/maid to come in before you arrive/once you arrive, or is it not particularly dusty (assuming a clean before you left) because there isn't much to cause dust?
I dusted once and it just came back. I'm not falling for that again.

[JMintzer]

My wife asked me if anyone in this thread commented on "dust" upon returning to the home after an extended leave but I don't see any comments about that. Do you hire a cleaning crew/maid to come in before you arrive/once you arrive, or is it not particularly dusty (assuming a clean before you left) because there isn't much to cause dust?

My wife comments that the place is a bit dusty when we get back... I didn't notice...

By the time I remember to look around for the dust, it magically disappears...

Must be like the "magic coffee table"...

https://youtu.be/-_kXIGvB1uU

[retiredguy123]

Here is a tip about dust. Upgrade your HVAC filter from Merv 8 to Merv 11. Your house will be quieter and less dusty.

[Tustin714]

Here is a tip about dust. Upgrade your HVAC filter from Merv 8 to Merv 11. Your house will be quieter and less dusty.
Thanks, and I interpret this to mean you run your AC while being gone...correct?

[retiredguy123]

Thanks, and I interpret this to mean you run your AC while being gone...correct?
I am not a snowbird, but the Merv 11 filters have been an improvement over the Merv 8.

[tophcfa]

Thanks, and I interpret this to mean you run your AC while being gone...correct?

Dam well better or your home will most likely be filled with mold when you return. The AC keeps the humidity levels below the level that promotes mold growth.