Summer is the time of year when we crave those refreshing ice-cold beverages. To ensure that the drinks stay cold, clean your refrigerator to help it run more efficiently, paying particular attention to the condenser coils. Dig out your owner’s manual or look one up online to learn how to locate and properly clean those coils.

Always remember to run a fan in the bathroom when you shower to help remove the warm, moist air and reduce humidity in your home.

Switch your light bulbs to compact fluorescent bulbs, as they produce less heat. If your home has outdoor lighting, consider more energy-efficient options such as solar- powered fixtures or low-voltage lights.

This time of year, many people are gearing up to take their annual summer vacation. They’ve arranged for the dog- sitter, booked their flights, and packed their swimsuits and sunscreen. But as they focus on their destination, they may not be aware of what was overlooked back at home.

If you are getting ready to lock the door and get out of town for a while, add these little tips to your “to do” list:

 controlled temperature system as mentioned previously in this article, set your thermostat to 78-degrees. It’s a reasonable temperature that won’t have you arriving home to an oven, nor will it run up super expensive cooling bills to pay with whatever is left of your souvenir money.

 plugged in, it’s less likely to cause a problem while you are away.

 will go bad while you will be out of town. Throw out your garbage and any other items that might start to smell during your absence.

 or a homemade version consisting of a half-cup of vinegar and water.

         washing machine.

 a good time to use it.

          It’s so pleasant to sleep with the windows open when it’s not so blistering hot. Just make sure that you close and lock them before you leave. What isn’t so pleasant is returning home to discover intruders or the weather have let themselves in during your absence.

 them when you will be gone, and when you are expected to return. They may offer to keep an eye on your home, pick up your mail, and even water your plants for you while you’re away. If you offer to do the same for them when they go out of town, it sounds like a win for both of

10 | COMMON INTEREST® A Publication of CAI-Illinois Chapter

you! Neighbors have an interest in watching out for each other; where they live is often where you live too.

 in your spot, and keep your car parked in the garage. Temporarily discontinue your newspaper or mail delivery, or as mentioned previously, have a neighbor or friend pick it up so it doesn’t accumulate.



 you or using while you are on vacation, notify the credit card company so they can be temporarily deactivated.

        managed by a management company, notify your manager if you will be out of town and unreachable for a long period of time. Provide a name and number of someone they can contact should an emergency occur that might necessitate access to your home.

With this helpful advice, you’re well on your way to successfully summerizing your home.

To many people, summer is the best time of year. If you employ these tips, you can get the most out of your home… and your wallet. The only thing left to do is relax and enjoy your vacation!

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Ready… Set…

j y Summer!