Prepare Your Home and HVAC for Vacation: Hassle Free Tips for Peace of Mind

It’s spring and that means vacation is right around the corner. Whether you’re headed out of town for spring break or, planning your summer getaway, rest easy knowing that your home is secure, and your HVAC system is set correctly by following these simple tips:

1. Adjust Your Thermostat Settings. If you’re not going to be home, of course you want to save money on your electrical bill. In the warm months, increase your thermostat a few degrees above your normal temperature to save on cooling costs while you’re away.
2. Close Your Blinds & Curtains. Block out the sunlight while you’re away to conserve energy and keep your home at a more consistent temperature. This small change alone can reduce heat gain in your home by up to 77% on sunny days.
3.  Change Filters. Make sure the air is flowing freely in your home by changing the air duct filters before you leave. This will keep your unit running more efficiently in the long term, too.
4. Utilize a Programmable Thermostat. Control your home’s temperature right from your phone while you’re away with a smart thermostat or, use the scheduling feature on your programmable thermostat before you leave and set a schedule for the ideal temperature in your home throughout each day.
5. Check for Leaks. Crawl around under the house, in the attic and under bathroom and kitchen cabinets to identify any water leaks, standing water, or possibly torn or exposed duct work.
6. Stop the Mail. Put a hold on your mail while you’re away to keep it from piling up, signaling your absence.
7. Set Timers. In addition to your smart thermostat, set a schedule in your home using timers for lights to go on and off at certain intervals during the day to simulate someone being home. Consider motion sensor lights for outdoor areas as well.
8. Check Doors & Windows. Do a quick walkthrough of your home to make sure all windows and exterior doors are properly sealed and locked.
9. Hold the Trash. Just like the mail piling up, an empty trash can at the edge of your drive is a red flag that someone is away. Or, ask a neighbor to pull it in for you.
10. Clean out Fridge/Pantry. Depending on how long you’re going to be gone, the last thing you want to come home to is moldy, old food that can cause a real odor in your home. Dump any perishables (and take the trash out) before you leave.
11. Lock It Up. Secure any important documents and valuables in a fireproof safe inside of your home. Many safes are not only fireproof but also waterproof in case of an unexpected, busted pipe or water leak.

If you haven’t scheduled your spring HVAC tune up, before leaving for vacation is the perfect time. Rest easy knowing that your air conditioning unit is running smoothly, efficiently, and safely while you’re away. Call us today to check off part of your vacation planning guide with Thornton’s Heating & Air.