(252) 355-9191
Before leaving for vacation, most of us consider pet care, packing, and planning as the most important things to do. But have you ever considered the importance of prepping your HVAC unit as well? Your HVAC unit actually affects your home more than you think, and without the proper care and settings, your unit can cause high energy bills and negatively impact indoor air quality. Keep reading to find out more helpful HVAC tips to know before you leave for vacation.
Thermostat Settings
When leaving town for a few days, it’s essential to set the temperature in your house responsibly. Make sure to consider the weather conditions while you are away to prevent your HVAC system from running continuously. When it is cold outside, consider setting your thermostat between 55°F and 60°F. This will help to keep your pipes from freezing while using minimal energy. If you have any plants or pets, you should consider their comfort as well. Consider upgrading to a smart or programmable thermostat ahead of your vacation. These types of thermostats allow you to set a schedule for the temperature in your home. You can also adjust the temperature from your phone, regardless of your location. This makes it easy to minimize energy use and still come home to a cozy house.
Interior and Exterior
Before you leave for vacation, take some time to inspect your home. Ensure the outside unit is free of grass clippings, leaves, and other debris that may accumulate around your unit to prevent blockages. You should also change your air filter. A clean filter will ensure your HVAC system runs more efficiently, helps air circulate properly, and reduces the spread of dust, allergens, and bacteria, keeping your home and family healthy. Additionally, keep the vents around your home clear so that air can flow freely. You may have heard that closing your vents while you are away will save you money, but this actually reduces efficiency and puts extra stress on your unit, so keep those vents open! Disconnect any unnecessary appliances while you are gone, including TVs, computers, and other electronics, to conserve energy. Remember to close curtains to limit heat loss and seal any gaps in the doors or windows.
Maintenance
When planning your winter vacation, consider scheduling a maintenance visit with Advance Mechanical. Having a certified professional inspect your unit before your trip will give you peace of mind that it will function properly while you are away. And if there are any issues, they can be addressed and fixed before they worsen. This will help prevent any unexpected damage, and preventative maintenance is the best way to ensure your unit lasts as long as possible, increases energy efficiency, and minimizes costs.
To prepare your home before your trip, consider contacting Advance Mechanical for assistance. Our team can offer helpful recommendations to get your home ready for vacation mode, as well as provide maintenance services. We also offer Comfort Club memberships, ensuring your unit is well-maintained and functioning correctly. Your comfort and satisfaction are our top priority, so that you can trust that with Advance Mechanical, your HVAC unit and your home are in good hands. Contact us today with questions or to schedule service at 252-355-9191.