Here Are Eight Ways to Set the HVAC System Before a Vacation
Summer vacations are an opportunity to unwind and enjoy a break from the daily grind. Before you head out, ensure that the house and HVAC system are prepared for while you’re gone. Some prep work goes a long way toward lowering your risk of high-cost repairs and ensuring a safe, comfortable home until you’re back home. Use the following eight handy tips to set up your HVAC system before a vacation so your return home is easy and trouble-free.
1. Ensure Your Vents are Clear and Open
Blocked vents lead to uneven temperatures and unnecessary strain on your HVAC system. To avoid this, ensure that all the ventilation registers are fully opened and not obstructed by large pieces of furniture, the carpet or curtains. This ensures steady airflow and stops any portion of your home from feeling excessively hot or cold.
2. Fix Air Leaks and Drafts
Check windows and doors for cracks or gaps before heading out. Fixing drafty windows strengthens the house’s insulation and can help reduce the extra burden on the HVAC. Simple fixes such as caulking fixed joints and installing weatherstripping tighten up the window and door seals. These easy jobs can have a significant impact in keeping indoor temperatures more consistent.
3. Use Window Coverings Strategically
Sunlight coming through bare windows raises the temperature inside, causing your AC system to work much longer and harder in the summer. Draw the blinds, any drapes or even sunshades to block out more of that sunlight during the afternoon, keeping your home cooler and reducing the stress it leaves on your HVAC.
4. Shut Down Electrical Devices and Water Supply
To save even more energy and minimize the risk of electrical issues, unplug the appliances and other electronics you won’t use before it’s time to leave. This should include things like TVs, laptops, gaming devices and most small household appliances. Plugging as many of them as you can into surge protectors makes it much easier to turn off the electricity to them all simultaneously.
You might also want to turn the main water shut-off valve or cut off the water supply to specific fixtures of your plumbing system by turning the valve on the wall closest to them. This proactive step helps protect your home from leaks that could cause significant damage if you’re not there to address them right away.
5. Tidy Up Around the Outdoor Unit
Along with a qualified maintenance visit, you can further boost HVAC performance by removing weeds, rocks or grass clippings or debris near the outdoor cabinet near the house. Before heading to the airport, take a few minutes to hose down the unit and sweep debris about 3 feet away. This basic task prevents yard waste from impacting system efficiency and limit the risk of problems while you’re gone.
6. Use Your Thermostat Efficiently
Updating the settings on your thermostat is an easy way to reduce energy waste and keep energy costs in check while away on vacation. Keep your thermostat around 85 degrees when on summer vacation to minimize cooling an empty house without allowing the interior to overheat.
If energy efficiency is a top priority, consider installing a smart thermostat before your vacation. This device lets you monitor and control schedules and settings no matter where you are via the mobile app. You can modify any schedules based on the day’s weather and get automatic notifications if any unexpected problems appear.
To ensure a comfortable return, direct your smart thermostat to begin cooling things down for a while before you get home. If you don’t have a smart thermostat, consider asking a friend to adjust the settings for you. That way, you can come back to a comfortable home, even after saving on energy bills for the duration of your trip.
7. Tune Up Your HVAC System
One of the best things you can do to help your HVAC system run smoothly is to schedule a maintenance visit leading up to your trip. A professional HVAC technician can check for signs of trouble, service key components, and resolve any issues found during the inspection. This preventive measure lowers the likelihood of unexpected problems and maintains system efficiency.
8. Don’t Forget About Pets and Houseplants
If you have a dog or even indoor plants that stay at home while you’re away, take them into account when adjusting the temperature during your absence. The suggested 85 degrees Fahrenheit might be too hot for them. Consider boarding any pets, or check with friends and neighbors to look after them or water your plants. Write down a few guidelines for setting the thermostat if needed.
Let Us Help You Prepare for Vacation
Regardless of if you’re eagerly awaiting your dream vacation or just stepped inside to find the HVAC isn’t working, Hays Cooling, Heating & Plumbing can offer solutions. We are proud to provide speedy, safe solutions to any and all your comfort problems.
Nothing is more important to our ACE-certified technicians and installers than your total satisfaction. If you need an appointment for AC maintenance before you leave town, don’t hesitate to contact us to schedule an appointment. We’re here to have a positive impact in your home and for your peace of mind.
