Heading home from UNC Charlotte for winter break is an exciting feeling. After a long semester of classes and exams, you’ve earned a chance to relax and reconnect with family and friends. But before you go, taking a few minutes to prepare your apartment can save you from major headaches later. Properly securing your space prevents common issues like pests, surprise utility bills, or security risks.
This guide is your step-by-step winter break checklist to make sure your Rush apartment is safe and sound while you’re gone. Following these tips will give you peace of mind, so you can fully enjoy your time away.
Key Takeaways
- Set Your Thermostat: Keep your heat set to at least 55°F to prevent pipes from freezing, even in Charlotte’s milder winters.
- Clear the Kitchen: Remove all perishable food from the fridge and pantry, and take out all trash to avoid pests and mold.
- Unplug & Secure: Disconnect non-essential electronics to save power and protect from surges. Secure or take home all valuable belongings.
- Lock Down: Double-check that all windows and doors are securely locked before you leave for the break.
- Communicate: Inform the leasing office of your extended absence for added security and peace of mind.
Property Protection: Pipes, Utilities, and Appliances
Prevent Frozen Pipes
One of the most important steps before you leave for winter break is to keep the heat on. Set your thermostat to a minimum of 55°F. This is a crucial step to prevent pipes from bursting, which can cause thousands of dollars in water damage to your apartment and belongings.
As a pro tip, open the cabinet doors under your kitchen and bathroom sinks. This allows the warm air from your apartment to circulate through the plumbing, giving your pipes an extra layer of protection against the cold.
Unplug Electronics
Walk through your apartment and unplug any non-essential appliances and electronics. This includes your TV, gaming consoles, computer, toaster, and coffee maker. This simple action has two big benefits: it stops “phantom” energy use that can add to your electricity bill, and it protects your expensive gear from potential power surges that can happen during winter storms.
Manage Your Fridge and Freezer
Go through your fridge and freezer and get rid of any food that could expire while you’re away. This means tossing out leftovers, milk, eggs, and certain produce. The last thing you want to come back to is a science experiment growing in your fridge. Planning can also help you figure out your UNCC meal plans for next semester.
If you’ve managed to empty your fridge, give it a quick wipe-down and prop the door open slightly. This prevents mildew from forming while it’s turned off.
Winter Prep Checklist: Do’s & Don’ts
| Task | Do | Don’t |
|---|---|---|
| Thermostat | Set the heat to a minimum of 55°F. | Turn the heat completely off. |
| Fridge & Food | Remove all perishable food and take out all trash. | Leave leftovers or open food containers in the fridge. |
| Valuables | Take expensive and sentimental items home with you. | Leave laptops, jewelry, or cash in plain sight. |
| Doors & Windows | Double-check that every single window and door is locked. | Forget to lock a patio door or a less-used window. |
| Communication | Inform the leasing office of your departure/return dates. | Assume everything will be fine without notifying anyone. |
| Utilities | Unplug non-essential electronics to save power. | Leave all of your electronics and lights on. |
5BR/5BA
Security and Safety: Protecting Your Belongings
Secure or Remove Valuables
When you pack for home, make sure to take valuable items with you. This includes things like jewelry, your laptop, important documents, and anything with sentimental value. If you have to leave some valuables behind, store them out of sight and away from windows.
Check All Locks
Before you walk out the door for the last time, do a final check of every window and door. Make sure they are all securely locked, including your patio door and even your bedroom door. It’s a small step that provides a huge amount of security. For more ideas, you can find tips from fellow UNCC students who have been through this before.
This is a crucial step to prevent pipes from bursting, which can cause thousands of dollars in water damage to your apartment and belongings.
Notify the Office
Let the Rush leasing office know your departure and expected return dates. This helps our management team know which units are unoccupied over the break. In the rare case of a building-wide emergency or maintenance issue, having this information allows us to act more effectively and keep your home safe.
The Pre-Departure Clean-Up
Take Out All Trash
Leaving trash in your apartment, even in a can with a lid, is an open invitation for pests and will lead to some nasty odors. Empty every single trash can; kitchen, bathroom, and bedroom, and take the bags to the designated disposal area. This simple chore helps you avoid being charged for trash removal.
Clean the Kitchen and Bathroom
Wipe down your kitchen counters and sink to get rid of any crumbs or food residue. For an extra clean, run your garbage disposal with a few ice cubes and citrus peels to clear it out. A quick clean of the bathroom can also help prevent any mold or mildew from growing while the apartment is closed up for a few weeks.
FAQs: Your Winter Break Questions Answered
Yes, it’s highly recommended. Unplugging non-essential electronics saves you money on your utility bill and protects your expensive devices from potential power surges while you’re away.
You should remove all perishable items from your fridge and pantry. Take out all trash from every room in your apartment to prevent pests and bad odors from developing during the winter break.
No, never turn your heat completely off in the winter. You should set your thermostat to a minimum of 55°F. This prevents your pipes from freezing and bursting, which could cause thousands of dollars in damage to your belongings and the apartment.
Yes, it’s a great idea. Letting the office know your travel dates helps our team know which apartments are unoccupied in case of a maintenance emergency or building-wide alert.
Final Preparations for a Stress-Free Break
Plan for a Successful Return
A little preparation before you leave makes coming back for the new semester so much smoother. With your apartment clean and secure, you can use the break to get organized and plan for second-semester success.
Water Plants and Care for Pets
Don’t forget about your green friends! Give any houseplants a good watering before you head out. If you have a pet, make sure your arrangements for them are confirmed, whether they’re coming home with you or being looked after by a friend.
Enjoy Your Break and Welcome Back to Rush
With your apartment prepped and secure, you can head home and enjoy a well-deserved, stress-free winter break with family and friends. Following this checklist ensures you can relax without worrying about what’s happening back in Charlotte. For updates and more student living tips, be sure to follow Rush on Instagram.
We can’t wait to welcome you back for the spring semester. You’ll be returning to a great community with amazing amenities and lots of things to do in Charlotte, NC. As a community that is part of the Niner Choice program, we’re proud to be a trusted home for UNCC students. Have a safe and happy break!
Pamela Lynch
Area Manager
Get ready to meet Pamela, the driving force behind Rush Student Living in Charlotte! As our Area Manager in the Queen City, Pamela’s commitment to the Gold Standard is undeniable. Her meticulous approach led to her nomination for Community Manager of the Year, and under her guidance, her community was even awarded Community of the Year! She truly sets the bar high for student living.
