Here Are Eight Ways to Prepare the HVAC System Before a Vacation

Taking a break in summer is an opportunity to recharge and enjoy a break from the daily grind. But before you leave, make sure that the house and HVAC system are prepared for your absence. A bit of planning goes a long way toward lowering your risk of high-cost repairs and keeping your home safe until you’re back home. Try these eight practical tips to set up your HVAC system for vacation so your return home is smooth and trouble-free.

1. Schedule an HVAC Tune-Up

A great way to keep your HVAC in top shape is to schedule a maintenance visit before your trip. A certified professional will check for signs of trouble, service key components, and address any issues they find. This proactive approach reduces the risk of unexpected problems and keeps your system running efficiently.

2. Tidy Up Around the Outdoor Unit

Along with a technician’s inspection, you can also help protect system performance by removing weeds, dirt or other yard debris near the outdoor cabinet near the house. A few days before you leave, spend some time to rinse dirt and dust off and sweep debris about 3 feet away. This simple step can help your system run more efficiently and limit the risk of problems while you’re away.

3. Ensure Your Vents are Clear and Open

Obstructed vents often result in inconsistent airflow and extra stress on your HVAC system. Before you leave, verify that all registers are clear and not blocked by shelves, the carpet or curtains. This maintains proper air circulation and keeps any specific room of your home from becoming excessively hot or cold.

4. Set Your Thermostat Wisely

Updating the settings on your thermostat is an effective option to conserve power and keep energy costs in check while you’re out of town. Set your thermostat around 85°F when traveling in the summer to save on cooling costs without allowing the interior to overheat.

If energy efficiency is a top priority, consider installing a smart thermostat before your vacation. This device allows you to adjust schedules and settings as long as you have an internet connection via the mobile app. You can keep an eye on the temperature based on changes in weather and be alerted right away if any issues pop up.

To make sure you come back to total comfort, direct your smart thermostat to start cooling your home for at least a few hours before you get home. If you don’t have a smart thermostat, ask a neighbor to handle changing the thermostat. This way, you can walk into a comfortable home, while still cutting down on energy costs for the days or weeks during your absence.

5. Make Arrangements for Pets and Plants

If you have a dog or even just one or two houseplants that stay at home while you’re away, take them into consideration when setting the thermostat’s schedule during your absence. The official DOE recommendation of 85 degrees F might be excessive for them. Board your pets if you can, or ask a friend or neighbor to take care of them or water your plants. Offer some directions on paper for adjusting the thermostat if needed.

6. Use Window Coverings Strategically

Sunlight streaming through bare windows increases the indoor temperature, forcing your air conditioner to work harder in the summer. Close the blinds, any curtains or even shades to keep sunlight out during the hottest parts of the day, maintaining a cooler home and lessening the strain on your AC.

7. Close Gaps and Drafts

Check windows and doors for drafts before heading out. Fixing drafty windows enhances air tightness and helps ease some of the stress on the HVAC. Quick DIY fixes like caulking stationary joints and installing weatherstripping seal windows and doors better. These easy jobs can really help in maintaining stable indoor temperatures.

8. Shut Down Electrical Devices and Water Supply

To save even more energy and lower the chances of electrical damage, disconnect all unnecessary utilities, appliances and electronics before it’s time to leave. This means things like TVs, laptops, gaming devices and small kitchen appliances. Using surge protectors for these devices makes it much easier to turn off the electricity to them all simultaneously.

It’s also smart to turn the main water shut-off valve or cut off the water supply to specific plumbing fixtures and appliances with the valve on the wall nearby. This proactive step helps secure your house from water damage or broken pipes if you’re not there to catch them.

We Can Help You Get Ready for Vacation

Whether you’re eagerly awaiting your dream vacation or just came back to discover the HVAC isn’t working, Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing can help. We pride ourselves on delivering quick yet lasting repairs to all your comfort problems.

Nothing is more important to our ACE-certified technicians than your comfort and complete satisfaction. If you ready for an air conditioning checkup before you leave town, don’t hesitate to contact us to arrange for a technician to come out. We’re here to make a meaningful difference in your life and home comfort.