How To Set Your HVAC System When You Go On Vacation
Many people have spent the majority of 2020 in their homes. Getting acquainted with the ideal temperature and maintenance for working from home and beating the heat of the summer here in Florida. Summer is usually the time when people go on vacation, due to the fact that school is out. While a lot of travel plans may be on hold this year, it is still important to know what to do to prepare your HVAC system for when you leave for extended periods of time. The last thing you want is to leave your home and then come back a week later to a damaged system or high energy bills. There are a few steps you can take to ensure your HVAC system is still running efficiently in your absence.
Don’t Turn it Off – Adjust the Settings
Most people’s first instinct is to turn off the AC or leave it alone. If you leave your air conditioner running while you are away, it will ensure there is circulation in the house. This can help control the humidity and the condensation during the summer rain and heat. By doing so, it will help to prevent mold and excess heat buildup. Excess heat buildup can warp and degrade surfaces in your homes like wooden floors, door frames, and other structural components. Make sure the blinds and curtains are closed to reduce the amount of sunlight that enters the home and causes it to build heat. Leave your air conditioner turned up to a temperature a little higher than you would normally have it in the house but where it will kick on if the temperature inside gets too hot.
Reprogram for Safety and Savings
By having a programmable or smart thermostat installed in your home by Trust Heating and Air, you can have a convenient and reliable means of ensuring it stays at the right settings. In addition to this, you can also adjust your thermostat when you aren’t home using the convenience of a smartphone or computer. According to the EPA, it is recommended that you keep your thermostat at 85 degrees and then back to 72 degrees before returning. This will preserve the structure and contents of your home and prevent wasting any unnecessary energy while you are away. By using a smart thermostat, even if you forget to set your HVAC system before you leave for vacation, you can make the necessary changes over any smartphone.
Keep Your Home’s Humidity in Mind
The reason you don’t turn your air conditioner off entirely is because of humidity. Not only does an HVAC unit provide heating and cooling, but it also provides dehumidification. By circulating cool air throughout your home you can prevent excess moisture levels. High moisture levels in the air cause damage. Managing humidity levels is also important to keep your home fresh. Dampness in the air can lead to musty and unpleasant odors. On top of the odors, mold can form and that can be dangerous to your health.
Call in the Experts
No matter what the reason or occasion, if you are planning to leave you home for an extended period of time, be sure to set your air conditioning unit before you leave. It can make a big difference in air quality and energy bills when you return. At Trust Heating and Air, we are familiar with all variations on HVAC systems. We are here to help and provide preventative maintenance so your machine lasts a long time and your home is always comfortable. If you have any questions about smart thermostats or air conditioning units before going on vacation, give us a call or contact us today!
