Here Are Eight Ways for Preparing Your HVAC System for Vacation

The summer break is the perfect chance to unwind and break away from the daily grind. But before you leave, double-check that the house and HVAC system are prepared for your absence. A bit of planning goes a long way toward preventing high-cost repairs and keeping your home safe while you’re away. Try these eight useful tips to prepare your HVAC system for vacation so your first day back is smooth and stress-free.

1. Schedule an HVAC Tune-Up

A great way to help your HVAC system run smoothly is to set up a maintenance visit ahead of your vacation. A professional HVAC technician can inspect your system, clean important parts, and resolve any issues found during the inspection. This proactive approach reduces the risk of sudden breakdowns and keeps your system running efficiently.

2. Clear Debris from the Outdoor Unit

Alongside a professional tune-up, you can further boost HVAC performance by clearing out leaves, rocks or other yard debris around the outdoor cabinet near the house. Ahead of your trip, set aside a few moments to rinse dirt and dust off and clear any remaining debris. This simple step prevents yard waste from impacting system efficiency and prevent any issues while you’re gone.

3. Make Sure Your Vents are Open and Unblocked

Blocked vents often result in inconsistent airflow and unnecessary strain on your HVAC system. To avoid this, check that all the ventilation registers are open and not covered up by large pieces of furniture, rugs or , thick, heavy curtains. This keeps air circulating evenly and stops any portion of your home from becoming excessively hot or cold.

4. Use Energy-Efficient Settings for Your Thermostat

Changing your thermostat is a simple method to save energy and rein in utility bills while on vacation. Set your thermostat around 85 degrees Fahrenheit when on summer vacation to minimize cooling an empty house without allowing the interior to overheat.

If energy efficiency is a top priority, look into adding a smart thermostat before your vacation. This device allows you to adjust the settings no matter where you are via the mobile app. You can fine-tune the settings based on the day’s weather and get automatic notifications if any trouble shows up.

To guarantee a pleasant return home, access and adjust your smart thermostat to begin cooling things down for at least a few hours before you’ve arrived. If you haven’t installed a smart thermostat yet, reach out to a friend and ask them to adjust the settings for you. That way, you can return to a cozy house, even after minimizing energy waste for the days or weeks during your absence.

5. Plan for Your Pets and Plants

If you have pets or even indoor plants that stay at home while you are gone, keep them in mind when setting the thermostat’s schedule during your absence. The recommended 85 degrees F can be too hot for them. Arrange boarding for pets if possible, or check with friends and neighbors to pet sit and tend to your plants. Write down a few guidelines for changing the temperature if needed.

6. Use Window Coverings Strategically

Direct sunlight hitting any open windows raises the temperature inside, causing your air conditioner to run much longer in the summer. Close the blinds, any curtains or even shades to avoid extra heat in your home during the afternoon, keeping your home cooler and reducing the stress it leaves on your AC.

7. Close Gaps and Drafts

Check windows and doors for drafts before heading out. Fixing drafty windows enhances air tightness and lowers some of the strain on your HVAC system. Quick DIY fixes like caulking fixed joints and adding weatherstripping seal windows and doors better. These steps can have a significant impact in maintaining stable indoor temperatures.

8. Turn Off Electrical Devices and the Water Supply

To further reduce power consumption and minimize the risk of electrical issues, unplug the appliances and other electronics you won’t use before it’s time to leave. This means things like televisions, laptops, gaming consoles and most small household appliances. Using surge protectors for these devices makes it easy to switch off the power to them all simultaneously.

It’s also a good idea to turn the main water shut-off valve or cut off the water supply to specific parts of the plumbing with the valve on the wall closest to them. This kind of precaution helps safeguard your home from leaks that could cause significant damage if you’re unable to catch them.

Ensure a Relaxing Vacation with Service Experts Heating & Air Conditioning

No matter if you’re counting down the days before your dream vacation or just came back to discover something about the HVAC system isn’t working, Service Experts Heating & Air Conditioning can offer Expert support. We pride ourselves on delivering quick yet lasting repairs to any and all your comfort problems.

Nothing matters more to our ACE-certified HVAC Experts than your comfort and complete satisfaction. If you decide you need an air conditioning checkup before you leave town, please contact us to arrange for a technician to come out. We’ll go above and beyond to have a positive impact in your home and for your peace of mind.

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