
Should I turn off the water to my house when I go North?
Yes, this may be one of the most important steps to prevent damage. This not only offers peace of mind, but can also save you a major headache.

Should I turn off my electric water heater when I leave for the summer?
Yes, it is highly recommended to turn off your electric water heater, especially if you are turning off your main water valve. This will conserve the most energy and combat leaks.

How fast can mold grow in a closed Florida home?
Mold can grow exceptionally fast here. If your AC fails or humidity rises over 60% it can begin forming as quickly as 24-48 hours. Ideally, you want to maintain indoor humidity between 45% and 55%

How often should someone check my home while I am away?
Here at Gulf Coast Elite Homewatch, we recommend weekly visits, and bi-weekly visits at minimum. Issues may arise quickly and sometimes without warning.

How do I prepare my Florida home if I am leaving for the summer?
Here are some important steps to prepare your home for your departure.
- Turn off electric water heater
- Turn off main water
- Set AC (Ideally at 78 degrees)
- Interior doors open
- Unplug small appliances
- Empty perishables
- If fridge is turned off be sure to prop open the doors
- Check and secure all windows and doors
- Call 239-595-4310 to set up weekly checks.

How do I prepare my car while I’m away for the summer?
Investing in a reliable battery maintainer or trickle charger is wise. Have someone periodically check on the battery condition and for any pesky leaks or pests. Adversely we are happy to start your vehicle while you are out of town.

Do EVs need to be plugged in while sitting for months?
Most EVs can sit for months, so long as they are stored at 80% charge in a controlled environment. However, if your EV battery drops to 0% and sits, it can damage cells. It may also permanently lower your high-voltage battery’s capacity. So what should you do?
- Be sure to refer to your manual. Every manufacturer has their own guidelines.
- Keep battery plugged in, level 1 is ideal
- Set the main battery to 50-60% for storage. Again double check with manual, but this is a general rule
- Have periodic checks to ensure proper charging
We are happy to help!
If you would prefer a professional to handle this for you, Gulf Coast Elite Homewatch provides documented homewatch services for seasonal owners in Bonita Springs and Estero Florida.