As you lock the door behind you before leaving on vacation, make sure that last-minute checklist going through your head, as you try to remember if you locked the patio door and stopped mail delivery, includes a box that’s checked off for prepping the HVAC system.
Ensuring your HVAC is prepared before you leave home for a week or two is important for keeping the system running smoothly and maintaining an optimal temperature in your home while you’re away.
Here are a few tips to get your HVAC into good shape while you’re away enjoying vacation.
1. Check & Change the Filter
A dirty air filter is the Achilles heel of HVAC systems because it’s often the cause of poor HVAC performance and even failure. Ensure your HVAC system continues to run smoothly by checking and changing the air filter before you take that well-deserved getaway. A clogged air filter can lead to system malfunctions, so a quick inspection before your departure can prevent potential issues from arising while you’re away.
2. Clean Around the Outdoor AC Unit
Give the outdoor AC handler a quick look to see if there are any obstructions or if it needs a cleaning. Anything from vegetation, to leaves, and even the dreaded pollen can make it more difficult for your HVAC unit to function properly. Keep it clear to avoid any performance problems.
3. Get a Surge Protector
Surge protectors are a great idea for when your away and still smart for when you’re at home. If there’s is a strong storm, a significant power outage, or power surge while you’re gone, it could impact your HVAC unit. Surge protectors prevent damage and can save you from a malfunctioning system while you’re away and a significant repair bill when you get home.
4. Don’t Shut the Vents!
There’s a myth that closing your air vents will save money while you’re away. This actually reduces HVAC efficiency and makes the unit work harder, boosting your bill. Those extra warm rooms can even promote mold growth. Before hitting the road, clean air vents and returns and make sure there’s no furniture or anything else blocking air circulation.
5. Schedule a Maintenance Call
If your regular maintenance check is due, prioritize it before you leave for your vacation. Ensuring your HVAC system is in good condition before your departure can prevent unexpected issues and ensure your system runs smoothly while you’re away. A great way to keep up on HVAC maintenance is Jack Hall’s Service Protection Plans. Our preventive maintenance programs not only extend the life of your HVAC system, but help you save money and will definitely provide peace of mind while you’re on vacation.
6. Program the Thermostat
There’s no reason to optimally heat or cool a home when it’s empty. A ballpark setting to consider is 80 degrees or so in summer because high humidity can create moisture and mold issues. Don’t go lower than 50-degrees in the colder months to avoid potential damage or freezing pipes. Some things to include in deciding on the settings are if you’ll have pets in the home, sensitive plants, or someone stopping in to keep an eye on the house while you’re gone. You also want to make sure you don’t come back to a house that’s way too hot or cold and then overwork the HVAC getting things back to normal.
7. There’s an App for That
Smart thermostats allow you to monitor and adjust your HVAC system remotely using a connected app on your phone or tablet. This is great when you’re away because you’ll be able to check for any HVAC issues and on the way home adjust the temperature back to its normal setting so it’s comfortable when you walk in the door.
HVAC Maintenance in Glens Falls, Queensbury & Saratoga
The Jack Hall Plumbing & Heating team will make sure your HVAC system is the last thing you’ll need to worry about during a vacation. Contact us today to schedule an HVAC service call in Glens Falls, Queensbury, Saratoga and the surrounding areas. Our expert HVAC technicians will get your unit running perfectly, and can assist with thermostat and technology upgrades.
