Whether you're heading to your second home or taking an extended vacation, properly preparing your appliances protects your investment and prevents costly problems.
Refrigerator Preparation
For Short Trips (1-2 Weeks)
Do:
- Set temperature slightly colder (2-3 degrees)
- Consume or discard perishables
- Check ice maker water supply
- Ensure doors seal properly
Don't:
- Turn off the refrigerator
- Leave expired food inside
For Extended Absences (2+ Weeks)
Option 1: Leave Running (Recommended)
- Clean interior thoroughly
- Remove all perishables
- Turn off ice maker
- Set to normal temperature
- Have someone check weekly if possible
Option 2: Complete Shutdown
- Only for 4+ week absences
- Remove ALL food
- Unplug the unit
- Clean thoroughly
- Prop doors open slightly (prevents odor/mold)
- Place baking soda inside
- Note: Sub-Zero recommends leaving running if possible
Range and Oven Preparation
Before leaving:
- Clean thoroughly (prevent pest attraction)
- Ensure all burners are off
- Check that oven is empty
- Consider turning off gas supply for extended trips
- Clean ventilation hood filters
Gas range specific:
- Know how to shut off gas supply
- Leave pilot lights on unless away for months
Dishwasher Preparation
For any absence:
- Run empty cycle with dishwasher cleaner
- Leave door slightly ajar to prevent odor
- Turn off water supply for extended trips
- Clean filter before leaving
Pre-Trip Checklist
□ Refrigerator cleaned and set properly
□ Freezer organized, ice maker adjusted
□ Oven and cooktop clean and off
□ Dishwasher run and door propped
□ Wine cooler verified stable
□ HVAC set appropriately
□ Water supplies as needed
□ Smart monitoring enabled
□ Emergency contact left with neighbor
□ Surge protection in place
Your luxury appliances represent a significant investment. Taking a few precautions before vacation protects that investment and ensures everything works perfectly when you return.