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

Taking a break in summer is a time to recharge and take a much-needed rest from the everyday hustle. Before you head out, double-check your home and HVAC are ready for while you’re gone. A bit of planning goes a long way toward avoiding high-cost repairs and ensuring a safe, comfortable home until you’re back home. Here are eight handy tips to prepare your HVAC system before a vacation so your return home is smooth and stress-free.

1. Stay on Top of Routine HVAC Maintenance

One of the best ways to help your HVAC system run smoothly is to request 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 preventive measure reduces the risk of surprise equipment failure and maintains system efficiency.

2. Tidy Up Around the Outdoor Unit

Along with a professional tune-up, you can do your part to improve efficiency by clearing out leaves, rocks or other yard debris near the outdoor cabinet near the house. Before heading to the airport, spend some time to spray it with the hose and clear any remaining debris. This basic task prevents yard waste from impacting system efficiency and avoid any problems while the house is empty.

3. Ensure Your Vents are Clear and Open

Obstructed vents lead to uneven temperatures and extra stress on your HVAC system. Before you leave, verify that all the ventilation registers are clear and not obstructed by large pieces of furniture, rugs or , thick, heavy curtains. This maintains proper air circulation and stops any part of your home from feeling excessively hot or cold.

4. Use Energy-Efficient Settings for Your Thermostat

Changing your thermostat is an easy way to reduce energy waste and keep energy costs in check while you’re out of town. Set your thermostat around 85 degrees 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. The programming in these newer thermostats enables you to manage schedules and settings as long as you have an internet connection via the mobile app. You can modify any schedules based on changes in weather and receive alerts if any unexpected problems appear.

To guarantee a pleasant return home, access and adjust your smart thermostat to start cooling your home for a while before you get home. If you don’t have a smart thermostat, ask a neighbor to adjust the settings for you. With their help, you can come back to a comfortable home, even after 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’re away, keep them in mind when setting the thermostat’s schedule during your absence. The official DOE recommendation of 85 degrees F might be too warm for them. Board your pets if you can, or check with friends and neighbors to take care of them and tend to your plants. Offer some directions on paper for updating thermostat settings if necessary.

6. Keep the Curtains Closed to Keep Heat Out

Strong afternoon sun hitting uncovered windows increases the indoor temperature, forcing your HVAC system to work harder in the summer. Pull down the blinds, window treatments like curtains or even shades to block out more of that sunlight during the mid to late afternoon, maintaining a cooler home and reducing the stress it leaves on your AC.

7. Close Gaps and Drafts

Inspect all your windows and doors for air leaks before you leave. Fixing drafty windows improves your home’s insulation efficiency and lowers some of the strain on the HVAC. Quick DIY fixes include caulking fixed joints and adding weatherstripping help windows and doors close more tightly. These easy jobs can really help in ensuring consistent temperatures while you’re gone.

8. Turn Off Electrical Devices and the Water Supply

To further reduce power consumption and avoid any electrical problems, unplug non-essential appliances and electronics before it’s time to leave. This means things like TVs, laptops, gaming consoles and minor kitchen gadgets. Using surge protectors for these devices makes it much easier to switch off the power to everything all at once.

It’s also smart to close the valve for your water main or just the water supply to specific parts of the plumbing by turning the valve on the wall closest to them. This kind of precaution helps secure your house from leaks that could cause significant damage if you’re unable to catch them.

Let Us Help You Prepare for Vacation

No matter if you’re eagerly awaiting your dream vacation or just returned to find the HVAC isn’t working, Service Experts Heating & Air Conditioning can offer solutions. We take pride in providing quick yet lasting repairs to every one of your comfort problems.

Nothing matters more to our ACE-certified technicians and installers than your complete satisfaction. If you decide you need an HVAC tune-up before you leave town, please contact us to learn more. We’ll do whatever it takes to have a positive impact in your life and home comfort.