[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]

Originally Posted by 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

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]

Originally Posted by retiredguy123

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]

Originally Posted by 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

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]

Originally Posted by 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.

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]

Originally Posted by banjobob

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]

Originally Posted by 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

I made up my own.