Canal Winchester Heating & Cooling is ready for the summer heat! We’ve got our sleeves rolled up, and we are prepared to tackle whatever the summer throws our way. How about you? You are likely feeling ready for a nice, relaxing summer vacation at this time of the year, and we don’t blame you one bit. However, we believe it’s important to prepare your A/C system before heading out for any trips and vacations this season. It would be best to follow the tips and tricks below to keep your A/C unit running at its utmost capacity before your departure and upon your return. There’s nothing worse than returning home to a faulty air conditioning system.
What Are the Dangers of Turning Your A/C Unit Off While On Vacation?
It’s common for homeowners to think that turning off their HVAC system during their absence is wise and will help save on energy costs. But the A/C unit is designed to remove moisture from the air within your house. So when the air conditioner is turned off, indoor air quality is affected, and humidity becomes an issue. In addition, it creates the perfect environment for mildew and mold to grow. Trapped moisture can also result in peeling paint, wood warping, and other various undesirable outcomes.
What Temperature Should You Set the Thermostat On Before You Leave?
Before you set off for vacation, don’t forget to change your thermostat’s settings. Since no one will be home, it’s okay if the temperature is 5 to 10 degrees higher than it is usually set at. Industry standards state that 80-85 degrees is an excellent range to set your temperature. Doing this will still help you reduce your energy consumption but also keep your home’s temperature at a level that will not reap negative effects. If you have a smart or programmable thermostat, you can always set the temperature to change back to your typical temperature setting a few hours before you are scheduled to arrive back home. This will give your A/C system enough time to kick in and get your house back to a pleasant, comfortable temperature.
What Should You Do for Your Condenser Before Leaving for Vacation?
The area around your AC unit (also known as the condenser) should be kept clean and clear of any blockage or obstructions. This includes leaves, sticks, leaves, and plant overgrowth. So if the grass or weeds are particularly tall around this area, it would be good to mow the vicinity before you head out for vacation. You don’t want anything blown into the condenser blades while you are gone. In addition, you can also wipe or hose down the condenser if it is dirty or covered in pollen.
What Additional Tips & Tricks Can You Do Before Leaving For Vacation?
- Change Your Air Filter – This prevents air filter clogs.
- Leave Bedroom Doors Open – This enables good air circulation.
- Close Blinds & Curtains – This adds an extra layer of protection to keep the heat out.
- Unplug Appliances & Electronics – This helps keep the house cooler.
- Use a Surge Protector – This protects your HVAC system in case of a storm or outage.
With these tips and tricks, you can depart for your summer vacation with peace of mind knowing you left your A/C system in the best condition possible. If you have any questions about the system or maybe you have a concern with your air conditioner, feel free to call us. All of our technicians are NATE-certified. We would be more than happy to assist you and resolve your HVAC issues as soon as possible! Call Canal Winchester Heating & Cooling today at (614) 524-4737, or schedule an appointment online now by clicking here!
