Prepare for Summer: Venture Out Summer Departure Guide
Published on Feb. 23, 2026
Check Out Before You Leave
Before departing, stop by the Administration Office to review and confirm your contact information, including your email, phone number, and summer address.
If you are renting, make sure all Third-Party forms are submitted and paid. Confirm who has access to your keys and notify the office of your departure date.
Patrol will be notified and will conduct periodic exterior checks to confirm doors and windows are secured, and the Mail Room will be informed so your mail is handled appropriately.
If you arranged winter mail forwarding to Venture Out, you must cancel that forwarding directly with the U.S. Postal Service (https://www.usps.com/manage/forward.htm) approximately one week before returning to your summer residence. Venture Out is not authorized to cancel forwarding on your behalf. If cancellation timing is tight, forwarding labels are available at the Administration Office.
Refrigeration and Food Preparation
Remove all food items except sealed spices. Defrost and thoroughly clean the refrigerator and freezer, including the bottom trays.
Leave both doors propped open with folded towels and place a container of baking soda or uncooked coffee grounds inside to absorb odors.
Check all storage areas for perishables and place small amounts of bay leaves in cupboards to discourage insects.
Landscaping and Weed Control
Apply Ortho Ground Clear without 2-4-D before departure, and consider using a pre-emergent product that does not contain 2-4-D. If possible, arrange for someone to monitor your yard during the summer months.
Plumbing and Water Protection
Inspect the exterior main water supply fittings for leaks or corrosion, then turn off the main water valve. If possible, padlock the shut-off.
To prevent p-traps from drying out, pour approximately one cup of mineral oil into each sink and shower drain. Do not permanently block drains. Run the garbage disposal until clean, add one-half cup of mineral oil, pulse briefly, then add another half cup.
Turn off the water supply to the toilets and flush to clear solids. Remove most of the water from the bowl and add enough mineral oil to cover the remaining water. Leave water in the tank.
Turn off the water heater and allow it to cool. Pour one quart of RV antifreeze into the dishwasher and washing machine, and one-half cup into the washing machine standpipe.
Exterior and Drainage Protection
Clean gutters to prevent monsoon rain from backing up under shingles. Remove fruit from trees to discourage roof rats. Make sure ground drainage directs water away from your unit and clear block wall weep holes of debris. Do not leave valuables or furniture on ground level; elevate or store them indoors. Sandbags are available for ground-level Arizona Rooms if needed.
Golf Carts and Vehicles
Disconnect golf cart batteries and, if possible, arrange for monthly charging and short operation. Cover vehicles to protect them from dust and store them off bare ground when feasible. Remember no more than two golf carts on a lot. Do not store wood directly on the ground near your unit, as this may attract termites.
Heat and Humidity Management
Arizona’s extreme heat and low humidity can cause cracking in wood, flooring, artwork, and furniture. If you plan to turn off electricity, place water containers, like a gallon jug of water, filled three-quarters full with small holes in the lids throughout the home to allow gradual evaporation. Arrange for a caretaker to refill them as needed.
Double check that all windows are fully closed, sealed, and locked. Inspect weather seals for gaps or insect entry points. If you do not have low-e windows, install reflective silver shades. If you do have low-e windows, do not apply reflective coverings directly to the glass; instead, fully close blinds and curtains to prevent sun damage.
Electricity and Cooling
Some residents leave electricity on while others turn it off. If leaving electricity on, set the air conditioner between 90°F and 95°F to help protect flooring, electronics, artwork, and alarm systems.
Whether electricity remains on or is turned off, unplug non-essential electronics and remove batteries from clocks, remotes, and flashlights to protect against monsoon power surges.
If turning electricity off completely, you may lock the electric pedestal if applicable.
General Household Preparation
Replace smoke detector batteries, clean the stove and oven if needed, and be sure bedding and towels are clean and stored. Store small appliances in cabinets where space permits. Lower any home window awnings, check skirting openings to make sure they are secure, and close propane cylinder valves tightly. Cover electronics with sheets or towels to reduce dust infiltration.
Property Caretaker
Consider hiring a property caretaker to monitor humidity containers, inspect for leaks or storm damage, maintain weed control, monitor vehicles and golf carts, and ensure compliance with HOA standards. If using someone outside Venture Out, confirm they understand HOA property requirements.