How Can Homeowners Prepare Their AC System For A Summer Vacation?

Vacation, AC, Air Conditioner, Air Filter, Blog, Circleville, Maintenance, Ohio, Summer, Thermostat

If you have summer vacation plans for this season, be sure to include your AC system as you get things in order for your absence while you’re away. Summer is in full swing, and the last thing you want is to head off for a nice, relaxing vacation only to return to a faulty AC system. So it’s best to think about the details now and prepare your air conditioner before you set out for your summer vacation. Your Circleville Heating & Cooling experts want the best for you, your home, and your family, so keep reading the following as we prepare to face the summer head-on.

How Can Turning Your Air Conditioner Off While You’re Away For Vacation Be Harmful?

It can be harmful to your HVAC system and home if you completely turn off your system while you are away. Multiple things can go awry if your home is left to wither away in the heat of the summer. For instance, when your air conditioning system is turned off, heat rises in your home, causing humidity levels to be raised. This means that moisture in your home is increased, creating the perfect environment for mold and mildew to grow. Raised humidity levels can also cause wood to warp. So this means that wooden trim around your house, like doorways, baseboards, etc., can be subject to this. Peeling paint is another symptom that you want to stay away from. So take it from your Circleville Heating & Cooling professionals and leave your residential HVAC system turned on.

How Will Setting Your Temperature Higher Be Beneficial?

You might be thinking by now that leaving your HVAC system on is a waste of energy and money. But don’t worry! You don’t need to leave your thermostat setting on your usual temperature. Instead, we recommend that you set your thermostat at a temperature between 80-85 degrees before you go. Setting it between this range will allow for energy savings and reduce overall energy consumption while keeping your household temperature at a reasonable level that won’t result in any negative aftermath.

How Should You Clean the Condenser?

When was the last time you checked the area around your condenser? If you don’t know, your condenser is the outdoor unit located outside of your home. Generally, this area should be kept clear of plant overgrowth, leaf buildup, sticks or fallen branches, and any other outdoor objects that could fall on top of or blow in the condenser’s fan blades. In addition, if the unit is covered in pollen or dirt, you can wipe it down or hose it off with your garden hose. It’s essential to check and clean this area before heading out for your trip, as you don’t want anything falling into, onto, or obstructing the unit from working correctly while you are away.

How Else Can You Help Your AC Unit While You’re Away?

  • You Should Leave Doors Open – Leaving any bedroom doors and other room doors open can help provide good airflow and enable circulation.
  • You Should Close Blinds & Curtains – Closing blinds, curtains, and any window treatments will provide an extra means of protection to keep the heat out.
  • You Should Change the Air Filter – Checking and changing your air filter before leaving for vacation is always a good idea. 
  • You Should Unplug Appliances & Electronics – Unplugging appliances and electronics can aid in keeping your house cool.
  • You Should Utilize a Surge Protector – Using a surge protector can protect your HVAC system from storms and power outages. 

Are you looking for a local heating and cooling company you can trust? If so, let Circleville Heating & Cooling assist you with all of your HVAC needs! We are a family-owned company that focuses on providing our valued customers with a five-star experience every time. So call us today at (740) 218-5323, or schedule an appointment online now by clicking here!