The Ideal Temperature to Set Your AC When Going on Vacation
From choosing the destination to arranging time off work and locating pet sitters, planning a family vacation takes time and effort. There are so many things to do before you hit the road that you may overlook one important item.
Checking your HVAC system should be on your travel to-do list. What is the significance of doing this before leaving the house? Well, we’ve got some pointers to make your vacation less stressful.
What is best for your air conditioner?
It is important to ensure your HVAC system functions appropriately while you are away to keep your home comfortable and save energy. Set your thermostat to 78 degrees when your system is in cooling mode and empty. Pets such as a dog or cat can impact this setting. The AC uses the most energy in your home, so before you head out, switch the fan to “auto mode.”
Just a note for those that love to travel in the winter, heating mode recommendations are to set it to 65-68 degrees. If you are uncertain about the best setting for your HVAC, contact a member of the All American Heating and Air Conditioning team for recommendations.
Should you leave the air conditioner on or off?
Although you may be tempted to turn off your HVAC system while you’re away to save money, this may end up costing you more in the long run. When you turn off the air conditioner, indoor heat and humidity levels can rise, causing the growth of mold, musty smells and odors, peeling paint, and warped furniture. Turning off the air conditioner will not safeguard your home while you are away.
What are some things to consider?
There are a few additional things to think about to keep your HVAC system running smoothly while you’re away. If you are going to be gone for an extended period, consider utilizing a dehumidifier. By lowering the humidity in your home and removing extra moisture, a dehumidifier can improve the operation of your HVAC system.
A truly great investment for a vacation property or home is a smart thermostat. This is a state-of-the-art programmable unit that adapts to your household’s heating and cooling habits, adjusting temperatures accordingly. Smart thermostats are controlled over Wi-Fi, so you can make changes remotely from anywhere while you are gone. When you set your smart thermostat to vacation mode, it will automatically set the correct temperature to ensure that it remains efficient.
How can you save energy when you’re away?
Finally, perform a check for additional energy savings while on vacation by unplugging electronics with external power supplies such as laptops, smartphone chargers, gaming devices, and so on. Don’t forget to unplug tiny equipment like coffee makers, microwaves, and blenders.
Water heaters, pool pumps, lighting, main water supply, and other home devices can be high- energy consumers, so take some time to analyze these items for potential energy savings as well.
Getting ready to leave
Your well-earned vacation is just ahead, but before heading out, contact one of the experts at All American Heating and Air Conditioning in Raleigh, NC, to ensure that your HVAC system is working properly. If any repairs are necessary, they can be completed giving you that extra peace of mind before you leave.
Your pre-checklist is complete, and now it’s time to pack and have fun.