Try These Eight Tips to Prepare Your HVAC System for Vacation
The summer break is the perfect chance to recharge and enjoy a break from the daily grind. But before you leave, make sure your home and HVAC are set for while you’re gone. A little preparation goes a long way toward preventing expensive problems and keeping your home safe until you return. Here are eight practical tips to get your HVAC system ready before a vacation so your first day back is easy and worry-free.
1. Request a Professional HVAC Tune-Up
A great way to keep your HVAC in top shape is to schedule a maintenance visit ahead of your vacation. A certified professional can inspect your system, service key components, and fix any problems they find. This forward-thinking strategy reduces the risk of surprise equipment failure and maintains system efficiency.
2. Clear Weeds and Yard Debris from the Outdoor Unit
Along with a professional tune-up, you can also help protect system performance by removing any leaves, dirt or other yard debris near the outdoor cabinet near the house. A few days before you leave, take a few minutes to spray it with the hose and clear any remaining debris. This simple step prevents yard waste from impacting system efficiency and limit the risk of problems while you’re gone.
3. Check that Your Vents are Unobstructed
Obstructed vents lead to uneven temperatures and extra stress on your HVAC system. To avoid this, check that all the ventilation registers are open and not blocked by furniture, rugs or curtains. This preserves normal airflow and stops any part of your home from being too warm or cold.
4. Adjust Your Thermostat Smartly
Updating the settings on your thermostat is a simple method to save energy and keep energy costs in check while away on vacation. Set your thermostat around 85°F when on summer vacation to reduce energy waste without letting the indoor temperature skyrocket.
For even more benefits, think about getting a smart thermostat before your vacation. A smart thermostat allows you to adjust schedules and settings while you’re gone via a tablet or smartphone. You can fine-tune the settings based on changes in weather and receive alerts if any trouble shows up.
To make sure you come back to total comfort, set your smart thermostat to start cooling your home a few hours before you get home. If you don’t have a smart thermostat, consider asking a friend to handle changing the thermostat. That way, you can walk into a comfortable home, and still be saving on energy bills for the days or weeks during your absence.
5. Plan for Your Pets and Plants
If you have a dog or even just one or two houseplants that remain in your home while you are gone, take them into consideration when setting the thermostat during your absence. The suggested 85 degrees F may be uncomfortable for them. Arrange boarding for pets if possible, or get a friend or neighbor to look after them and make sure the plants are watered. Offer some directions on paper for updating thermostat settings if necessary.
6. Use Your Curtains and Drapes Wisely
Strong afternoon sun hitting bare windows raises the temperature inside, causing your HVAC system to work harder in the summer. Pull down the blinds, any curtains or even shades to keep sunlight out during the hottest parts of the day, maintaining a cooler home and easing the burden on your AC.
7. Close Gaps and Drafts
Inspect all your windows and doors for cracks or gaps before leaving on vacation. Making sure these gaps are sealed strengthens the house’s insulation and can help reduce the extra burden on your HVAC system. Quick DIY fixes such as caulking fixed joints and adding weatherstripping seal windows and doors better. These steps make a big difference in maintaining stable indoor temperatures.
8. Make Sure Electronics Are Unplugged, and the Water Main Shut Off
To further reduce power consumption and lower the chances of electrical damage, unplug the appliances and other electronics you won’t use before you leave. This includes things like televisions, laptops, video game systems and most small household appliances. Using surge protectors for these devices makes it much easier to switch off the power to everything all at once.
It’s also a good idea to shut off the main water valve or cut off the water supply to specific plumbing fixtures and appliances by turning the valve on the wall closest to them. This kind of precaution helps safeguard your home from water damage or broken pipes if you’re not there to catch them.
Ensure a Relaxing Vacation with Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing
No matter if you’re counting down the days before your dream vacation or just came back to discover the HVAC isn’t working, Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing can help. We are proud to provide speedy, safe solutions to every one of your comfort problems.
Nothing matters more to our ACE-certified HVAC Experts than your total satisfaction. If you decide you need an appointment for AC maintenance before you leave town, don’t hesitate to contact us to learn more. We’re here to make a meaningful difference in your home comfort and day to day.