As you’re checking items off your to-do list and preparing your home for vacation this summer, you may forget a crucial step of preparing your home and ensuring your HVAC system is safe while you’re away. Luckily, there are ways to make sure your home and air conditioning are set and so you can enjoy your vacation worry-free.
How to Prep Your HVAC System Before Going on Vacation
- Clear Dust: Before leaving for vacation, it is important to clear any dust from the HVAC system air filter. Increasing amounts of dust can lead to lower air quality and increase your energy bill.
- Replace the air filter: Locate the filter on your system, usually at the return air duct of your system, and replace the old frame. You can determine the size of frame you need by locating the 3-dimensional number on the edge of the frame.
What should I set my air conditioner at when on vacation?
- Consider the duration of your trip: For vacations longer than a week, setting the air conditioning around 85°F is recommended to keep your home safe from extreme heat and humidity.
- If you’re only going to be gone for a vacation it’s recommended to keep your air conditioning at a level that you would normally keep it at. This will help ensure you
- Control humidity levels that will help you avoid common problems like mold, musty smells and odors, peeling paint, and warped wood in your floors, cabinets, etc,
- Ease additional stress on your appliances like your refrigerator and freezer. This increased stress can increase energy bills and cause breakdowns leading to spoiled food in your pantry, and
- Avoid damaged electronics: high temperatures can melt and fry the circuits that compose your devices, ultimately ruining the devices.
- Close all window treatments (blinds and curtains) on your windows to prevent the hot temperatures from outside from affecting your space and making your HVAC system work more.
- Consider any furry friends who may be staying in your house. For the health and safety of your pets, never turn your system off completely if your animals will be staying home while you are away.
What should I do with my water supply while on vacation?
Though not directly related to your home heating and cooling system, you can save additional energy by turning off the water supply before leaving for vacation. It’s important to close all of the main supply valves to the house to prevent any leakages from happening.
Trust Harker for Your Cooling Needs
Understanding and optimizing your air conditioning system is essential for efficient cooling and cost savings. For expert assistance, rely on the professionals at Harker Heating and Cooling Inc., your trusted partners in HVAC services and air conditioner services. Contact Harker today to check up on your AC unit before minor problems turn into costly repairs or replacements.
