Most of us are used to house maintenance in a very different climate. When preparing your home to sit in the summer heat of Arizona, it is important to know some basics.

Add Some Moisture to the Air

Your home will not have much ventilation and could become very hot inside. The climate is extremely dry, so consider adding some moisture to the air by providing evaporation. One method is to place containers of water throughout your home that can evaporate over the summer.

• Use small-mouth jugs to allow for slower evaporation, ensuring they last the season.

• Based on observations, about 3 gallons of water can evaporate over eight months of vacancy.

Close Off Those Traps

The traps below sinks, bathtubs, showers, and toilets exist for a reason—to prevent sewer gases from entering your home. However, during the summer, the water in these traps is sure to evaporate, eliminating their protective function.

• Close off traps to prevent evaporation.

• Toilets can be sealed off with plastic wrap.

Seal Off All the Drains

It is important to seal all drain openings, including sinks, bathtubs, and showers.

• One method is to cover drain openings with plastic bags filled with water. The bags will take the shape of the surface, forming a seal.

• Use sturdy, 100% sealed bags.

• Tape the overflows, preferably with a high-quality tape instead of painter’s tape.

Cover All Windows and Patio Doors

Where possible, windows should be covered to prevent sun damage and reduce internal heat.

• Many homeowners cut aluminum insulation sheets to fit each window and place them inside curtains or blinds, or between the window and screen.

• Other common window coverings include cardboard, thin plywood, or lowered and secured awnings.

• The most durable and reusable option is aluminum sheets cut to fit.

Shut Off Water and Power Supply

For safety and maintenance, shut off the power and water supply before leaving.

• Turn off power at both the internal breaker and the outside main breaker.

• Shut off the furnace thermostat and water heater.

• Some recommend leaving water in the lines to help prevent plastic pipes from drying out and plugging.

• When returning, open some taps before turning the water back on, and run the hot water for about ten minutes to flush out the hot water tank.