Thanksgiving and Christmas evenings in the Conejo Valley often end with a full table, clean dishes and a quiet home. Yet many families discover a new holiday hazard: appliances that quit just as the festivities wind down.
Late‑Night Repair Calls on the Rise
According to a recent analysis by Select Home Warranty, the share of service requests logged between 10 p.m. and 6 a.m. climbs to 10.3% of total holiday claim volume. On typical days the same overnight window accounts for only about 8% of claims. The 2.3‑percentage‑point increase may seem modest, but it signals a clear shift in homeowner behavior during the most treasured family gatherings.
Why the Spike Happens
Homeowners are understandably focused on hosting duties—cooking, entertaining and spending time with loved ones. When a dishwasher leaks or a garbage disposal stalls, most people choose to finish the evening before reporting the problem. The data shows that once the house quiets down, residents are quick to call their warranty provider, often in the early hours of the morning.
Practical Steps for Families
- Inspect Before You Celebrate: Give appliances a quick check after the big meal. Look for standing water, unusual noises or error codes.
- Document the Issue: Take a photo or note the time the problem began. This helps the warranty company process the claim faster.
- Know Your Coverage: Review your home‑warranty contract ahead of the holidays so you understand what is covered and any deductible that may apply.
- Schedule Early When Possible: If you notice a problem before guests arrive, call the service provider right away. Early reporting can prevent a late‑night emergency.
- Keep Emergency Contacts Handy: Store the warranty provider’s phone number in an easy‑to‑reach place, such as on the fridge or in your phone’s favorites.
Supporting Strong Families
These simple precautions align with the values that keep our neighborhoods thriving: responsible stewardship of the home, preparedness, and a focus on family time rather than frantic last‑minute fixes. By taking a few minutes to verify appliances before the holiday rush, families can avoid the stress of a midnight service call and enjoy a peaceful, uninterrupted celebration.
About Select Home Warranty
Select Home Warranty is a national provider that offers service contracts covering major home systems and appliances. Their data, gathered from thousands of claims, helps illustrate seasonal trends that can guide homeowners in planning and budgeting for unexpected repairs.
For Conejo Valley residents, the takeaway is clear: a little pre‑holiday diligence can spare you a late‑night scramble, protect your peace of mind, and keep the focus on what truly matters—family, faith, and the freedom to enjoy the season without worry.
Original reporting: Thousand Oaks Acorn — read the source article.