Beat the Heat: Essential HVAC Tips for Worry-Free Vacations

Summer! The kids are out of school, hot, sunny weather is here and it’s time for family vacation. Before you leave home, there are several steps that you can take to make sure your home, and heating and air unit, are safe and you’re saving money while away.

1. Keep It Running. You may be tempted to just “turn off” major appliances, including your HVAC system if you’re going to be away for an extended period of time. However, switching to off can cause major problems when you return. Extreme temperature changes in your home can lead to serious problems. In the summer months, a too hot or humid temperature inside your home can lead to mold and mildew. In winter, cutting off your heat can lead to frozen pipes and other damage. The same rules apply to other appliances such as refrigerators and ice makers.
2. Change It Up. While we don’t recommend turning off your unit completely, it does make sense to adjust your thermostat while you leave home. As a rule of thumb, it’s generally safe to increase your thermostat about five degrees above your normal range when leaving home during the warm months. This will keep your unit from running overtime while you’re out of the house therefor saving you money on your electricity, too. However, according to Pet MD, if your pet is going to be left inside, your thermostat should be set to no higher than 80 degrees.
3. Get Smart. Sometimes “one size (or temperature) doesn’t fit all”. This is where a smart thermostat comes in handy. Perhaps you’ll have a house sitter part of the time that you’re away or, you simply want your home to be comfortable when you return. A smart thermostat is an easy way to remotely control and monitor the temperature in your home, from your phone or tablet, while you’re away.
4. Use Your Resources Wisely. You may not realize it, but you already have resources in your home to help you save electricity and reduce heat. Are your ceiling fans turned on in every room of your house? What about curtains and blinds? Simply closing these during the hottest hours of the day can greatly reduce your indoor temperature, especially while you’re out of town. Room darkening shades can also be an inexpensive way to keep the sun out and cool down your home.
5. Protect Your Unit. One of the easiest and most effective ways to make sure you’re home heating and air conditioning system is prepared before you leave town is to call and schedule a tune up. Our technicians are trained to check to air leaks in your duct work and inspect your HVAC unit for any problems. Routine maintenance can prevent costly repairs while you’re away or when you return. Before you hit the road this summer, give Thornton’s Heating & Air Conditioning a call.

Following these simple tips can save you money while you’re away and keep your home safe, too. Thornton’s Heating & Air has been serving our community for over 50 years and we’re here to keep you, and your home, safe and cool year round, even when you’re out of town!