The summer break is an opportunity to relax and break away from the daily grind. Ensure your home and HVAC system are prepared for your absence. A little preparation goes a long way toward preventing costly damage and keeping your home safe until you're back home. Try these eight useful tips to prepare your HVAC system for vacation so your is seamless and trouble-free.
1. Schedule an HVAC Tune-Up
A great way to ensure your HVAC runs efficiently is to set up a maintenance visit leading up to your trip. A certified professional inspect your system, service key components, and fix any problems they find. This preventive measure lowers the likelihood of unexpected problems and ensures best performance.
2. Tidy Up Around the Outdoor Unit
Alongside a professional tune-up, you can also help protect system performance by clearing out leaves, rocks or grass clippings near the outdoor cabinet near the house. Before heading to the airport, take a few minutes to spray it with the hose and sweep debris about 3 feet away. This basic task can help protect operational efficiency and avoid any problems while you're away.
3. Make Sure Your Vents are Open and Unblocked
Closed vents lead to uneven temperatures and extra stress on your HVAC system. Make sure that all vents are fully opened and not blocked by furniture. This ensures steady airflow and stops any specific room of your home from feeling too warm or cold.
4. Set Your Thermostat Wisely
Changing your thermostat is an effective option to save energy and lower those energy costs while you're out of town. Keep your thermostat around 85°F when traveling in the summer to save on cooling costs without allowing the interior to overheat.
If you want an easier time setting these schedules up, look into adding a smart thermostat before your vacation. The programming in these newer thermostats allows you to adjust your home's temperature while you're gone via a smartphone app. You can modify any schedules based on weather forecasts and get automatic notifications if any problems happen.
To make sure you come back to total comfort, direct your smart thermostat to start cooling your home for at least a few hours before you get home. If you haven't installed a smart thermostat yet, to set the temperatures while you're gone. With their help, you can return to a cozy house, while still minimizing energy waste for the duration of your trip.
5. Don't Forget About Pets and Houseplants
If you have a dog or even just one or two houseplants that will be left at home while you're on vacation, when setting the thermostat during your absence. The recommended 85 degrees Fahrenheit may be excessive for them. Arrange boarding for pets if possible, or get a friend or neighbor to pet sit or water your plants. Offer some directions on paper for adjusting the thermostat if needed.
6. Keep the Curtains Closed to Keep Heat Out
Direct sunlight hitting any open windows increases the indoor temperature, causing your HVAC system to work much longer and harder in the summer. Pull down the blinds, any curtains or even sunshades to avoid extra heat in your home during the hottest parts of the day, keeping your home cooler and easing the burden on your cooling.
7. Fix Air Leaks and Drafts
Examine the windows and doors for cracks or gaps before heading out. Closing up these leaks enhances air tightness and lowers some of the strain on the HVAC. Simple fixes include applying caulk to the joints and installing weatherstripping seal windows and doors better. make a big difference in maintaining stable indoor temperatures.
8. Power Down Electronics and Turn Off the Water Supply
To conserve additional energy and minimize the risk of electrical issues, disconnect all unnecessary utilities, appliances and electronics before you leave. This includes things like TVs, computers, gaming devices and most small household appliances. Keeping these devices plugged into surge protectors makes it a breeze to switch off the power to .
It's also smart to turn the main water shut-off valve or cut off the water supply to specific parts of the plumbing by turning the valve on the wall closest to them. This preventive measure helps protect your home from potential leaks and major water damage if you’re unable to get to them in time.
Allow Us to Help with Vacation Prep
Regardless of if you’re eagerly awaiting your dream vacation or just came back to discover your HVAC system not working, Service Experts can offer solutions. We pride ourselves on delivering speedy, safe solutions to all your comfort problems.
Nothing to our than your complete satisfaction. If you need an HVAC tune-up before you leave town, please contact us to schedule an appointment. We're here to have a positive impact in your home comfort and day to day.
