3 Summer Vacation HVAC Tips
Are you planning on being away from home during summer vacation? If so, there are some things you'll want to know about your HVAC system. Many leave home for a week or two during the summertime. There's a lot to plan, errands to run, and a myriad of things that need to be done before it's time to go. Unfortunately, the HVAC system is often last on the list or left off completely for summer vacation preparations. Champion Air Systems, Inc. has some tips for you to keep in mind when planning to leave home for vacation.
Turn The HVAC System Off or Leave It On During Vacation?
If you are wondering whether to turn the thermostat off or to leave it on while you're away for summer vacation, you should leave it on. One of the reasons to leave the HVAC system running is that the equipment is made of hundreds of moving parts that need to run. Any machine that sits idle for a length of time will strain when you run it again. It's no different for the heating and air conditioning equipment.
In fact, seasonal temperature changes where homeowners switch from one system to the other is the busiest time of year for HVAC repairs. Humidity trapped in the home is another reason to leave your heating and cooling system on while you are away during summer vacation. The HVAC system circulates the air to remove some of the humidity. Humid conditions within the home will warp drywall, loosen textures, or give mold and mildew a chance to grow.
What Setting Should I Leave The Thermostat On?
You should leave the thermostat on a little higher than normal, but not too high, if you are wanting to save on the utility bill while you're away from home. Just make sure the HVAC system will cycle on several times a day. Other than circulating air to take care of humidity, you don't want to set the thermostat too high or it will strain when you come home and try to cool everything off.
Have Your Seasonal Air Conditioning Tune-Up Done *Before* Leaving Home
Prepping your AC for the summer is vital under normal circumstances, but especially if you plan to be away from home soon after. The tune-up involves checking, testing, adjusting, leveling, and lubricating many parts of the air conditioning system. Plus, you'll find out if any repairs need to be made so you can rely on it all season. The seasonal air conditioning tune up will prepare the system to run great all summer long. Don't wait until you get back home to find out the cooling system broke down.
Ensuring your HVAC system is properly prepared for any lengths of time you will be away keeps it reliable so you don't have to deal with an emergency breakdown once you return home.
