Going on vacation is exciting, but there’s more to think about than just packing your bags. You don’t want to overlook the importance of prepping the HVAC system for your time away. With the correct settings and adjustments, your air conditioner will run more efficiently, saving you energy. The more money you save, the more you will have to spend on your vacation.
Install a Smart Thermostat
Installing a smart thermostat is one of the best ways to remotely control your HVAC system. You can manage the temperature in your house from the convenience of your smartphone, no matter where you are. Even better, some smart thermostats can remember your routines and change the temperature accordingly. You won’t need to worry about adjusting the thermostat while you’re away. Specific models even offer real-time energy reports, allowing you to monitor consumption, identify inefficiencies, and implement cost-saving adjustments.
Set Your Thermostat to an Energy-Saving Temperature
Make sure to set your thermostat to a comfortable yet energy-efficient level before you leave. You’ll want to keep the house a little warmer than usual in the summer, around 85°F. Your air conditioner won’t have to run continuously at this temperature, and your house won’t become too hot or stuffy.
Keep Your Home Humidity-Controlled
Anytime there’s excessive moisture in the house, the air conditioner needs to work harder (even if you’re away on vacation). Managing the humidity level with a whole-house dehumidifier will help prevent this issue. It will also avert moisture-related problems, such as mold growth, musty odors, and damage to walls or furniture.
Seal Any Leaks Around Windows and Doors
Air leaks around doors and windows significantly impact the AC’s efficiency. As hot air sneaks inside while you’re away on vacation, the system works harder and runs longer. The increased wear and tear can lead to higher energy bills and a shorter lifespan for your HVAC system. This is why sealing these air leaks with weather stripping and caulk is so essential. It’s a simple task that can make a significant difference in energy savings and indoor comfort.
Close Blinds or Curtains While You’re Gone
Closing all shades and curtains before heading out is another way to improve the AC’s performance. You don’t want the sun’s rays to heat your home and raise indoor temperatures. When this occurs, it forces the AC to work overtime to keep the house cool. Keeping the shades and curtains closed while you’re away will prevent unnecessary heat gain.
Clean or Replace Air Filters Before You Leave
Air filters play a crucial role in how efficiently the AC cools the home. A dirty filter restricts airflow, compromising cooling performance and energy efficiency. You’ll notice uneven temperatures, longer cooling cycles, and higher energy bills. As the system tries to push air through the clogged filter, the home might even develop hot spots. Regularly changing the air filter is the only way to prevent these issues. To ensure optimal AC performance while you’re away, be sure to clean or change the filter before you leave.
Fix Air Duct Leaks
If you have a conventional forced-air heating system, check for leaks in the ducts. You don’t want any air escaping into unconditioned spaces. When this occurs, it leads to energy waste and uneven cooling while you’re away. Repairing duct leaks is somewhat simple but requires professional assistance.
Strategically Use Ceiling Fans
Ceiling fans are an effective way to enhance the performance of the AC. When utilized strategically, they circulate cool air more efficiently. This prevents hot and cold spots throughout the house by distributing air evenly. However, to ensure the fans function correctly, the blades must rotate in the proper direction. During the summer, they should rotate counterclockwise. This action pushes cool air downward, so the AC doesn’t have to run as frequently to maintain comfort.
Increase Insulation in Attics and Walls
Your home requires adequate insulation to maintain a comfortable temperature. Without sufficient insulation, conditioned air will escape through walls and attics. This results in the AC consuming more energy to maintain a stable and pleasant indoor temperature. Installing insulation is a job best suited for professionals.
Schedule a Professional HVAC Tune-Up
Schedule an AC tune-up a few days before you go on vacation. A technician will check the entire system to ensure it’s running efficiently. This includes inspecting all filters, coils, refrigerant levels, and ductwork. With the AC functioning at peak efficiency, it will reduce energy consumption while you’re away.
Change the Air Handler’s Settings
If your AC has a variable-speed compressor, adjust its settings just before you leave for vacation. Lowering its speed to the lowest level will reduce the power it uses to circulate air while you’re gone. This minor adjustment can significantly decrease your cooling costs. If you don’t know how to adjust its speed, one of our technicians can guide you through the settings.
Use Zoning To Control Specific Areas
Adding HVAC zoning is a great way to save money year-round, not just while you’re on vacation. This type of cooling allows you to target separate areas or zones throughout the home with different temperatures. It’s an effective method for cooling only a small portion of the house without affecting the others. If you have someone house-sit in your home while you’re away, this can ensure their comfort without wasting energy in unoccupied rooms.
Turn Off Unused Appliances
You might not notice it, but all plugged-in appliances generate heat. Unplugging them before you leave helps keep your home cooler, making it easier for the AC to operate with less energy. While you don’t want to unplug the refrigerator, other appliances are unnecessary energy drains. This includes TVs, kitchen gadgets, lamps, and electronics that are not in use.
Use a Smart Plug for Devices
Adding smart plugs to all outlets will provide enhanced control over plugged-in devices while you’re away. You’ll be able to access the devices from your smartphone. This can improve cooling efficiency by reducing unnecessary heat from appliances you forgot to unplug. If you sync your ceiling fans with smart plugs, you can turn them on or off remotely to boost air circulation.
Check All Air Vents With a Quick Walkthrough
Conduct a quick walkthrough before you leave to ensure there are no obstructions to the air vents in each room. It’s easy for furniture and curtains to obstruct the vents. Blockages prevent air from flowing into each space, disrupting air circulation and cooling efficiency. The AC will work harder and consume more energy while trying to maintain the desired temperature.
Southern Pride Service wants you to have the best vacation possible. We provide installations, repairs, and tune-ups for cooling systems of all types. Our commitment to delivering high-quality services ensures that you enjoy reliable, energy-efficient comfort all year round. Call Southern Pride Service now or complete an online contact form to schedule professional HVAC services in White Plains, MD.
