There’s a lot of preparation that needs to be done before going out of town, whether you’re taking a family vacation, going on a business trip, or embarking on a cozy weekend getaway.
Amid all the other preparations, don’t forget to perform essential home maintenance tasks like prepping your HVAC system before you leave in order to prevent unnecessary energy waste, help avoid system issues while you’re away, and keep your home comfortable and safe for when you return.
If you’re preparing for a vacation, follow these simple steps to save money and ensure peace of mind while you’re gone.
1. Adjust Your Thermostat, But Don’t Turn It Off
You should never completely shut off your HVAC system, even when you’re on vacation. Maintaining the temperature and humidity levels in your home is essential for preventing mold and mildew growth, preserving indoor air quality, and avoiding excess strain on your system when you return.
In the summer, set your thermostat to around 78–85 degrees. In the colder months, keep it between 55 and 60 degrees to prevent pipes from freezing. If you have a smart thermostat, use vacation mode or set a schedule to manage settings remotely.
2. Replace or Clean Your Air Filter
When the air filter is dirty, it forces your HVAC system to work harder, potentially causing it to overheat or even fail. When you install a clean filter before leaving on vacation, you encourage efficient operation and protect your home’s air quality. Replacing your filter is especially important if you plan to be gone for more than a week.
3. Close Windows, Curtains, and Blinds
Close your window coverings before you leave to reduce summertime heat gain or wintertime heat loss. This is a quick and easy way to help maintain stable indoor temperatures while you’re on vacation and reduce the strain on your HVAC system. For maximum efficiency, consider blackout curtains or thermal drapes, which act as an extra barrier against outdoor temperatures.
4. Inspect Vents and Registers
Make sure all air vents are open and unobstructed to maintain proper airflow throughout your home. Before leaving, check for any unusual noises coming from the vents or signs of debris buildup around the registers. If you notice any issues, it’s a good idea to schedule a quick inspection before your trip to make sure everything is working properly.
5. Check and Clean Around the Outdoor Unit
Don’t forget about your outdoor unit. If there are leaves, grass, or debris around, clear them away so the airflow isn’t blocked. Make sure the area around your condenser is clean and protected from weather hazards. If you’re going on vacation during storm season, consider covering the condenser with a breathable cover or protective cage.
6. Turn Off or Adjust Other Home Systems
To reduce electricity use and further improve your home’s efficiency, turn off or unplug unnecessary appliances. Furthermore, if your HVAC system is connected to a whole-home humidifier or dehumidifier, adjust it to keep humidity below 60 percent in the summer. In winter, set it to around 20–40 percent to prevent excess dryness while avoiding condensation.
7. Schedule a Preventive Maintenance Check
Even if you don’t notice anything obviously amiss, it’s still smart to schedule a quick inspection before leaving on vacation, especially if your system is older or you’ll be gone for a long time. These appointments allow your technician to identify worm parts, refrigerant leaks, or electrical issues before they have the chance to cause major problems. Plus, regular tune-ups improve your system’s reliability and efficiency year-round, not just while you’re on vacation.
Prepare Your HVAC System for Your Vacation with Genuine Comfort
Preparing your HVAC system before you leave on vacation can help you save money by increasing energy efficiency, protect your home from damage, and enjoy valuable peace of mind. At Genuine Comfort, we’re here to help you make sure your system is running efficiently before you go out of town. Contact us today to schedule your pre-vacation HVAC check-up so you can enjoy your trip without worrying about your home while you’re gone.
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