Vacation season is finally here! You’ve made your list and checked it twice. Sunscreen, swimsuits, phone chargers, and a plan for your thermostat. That last item might seem trivial, but adjusting your thermostat before you leave ensures you’ll return to a comfortable home and avoid an unwelcome spike in your utility bill.
Why Adjust Your Thermostat?
Your HVAC system is one of the biggest energy users in your home or business. When you’re away, there’s no need to keep your space as cool or warm as when you’re home. By setting your thermostat to a more energy-efficient temperature, you can lower your utility costs and reduce wear and tear on your equipment.
Best Vacation Settings for Your Thermostat
Here’s what experts recommend:
- In the summer, set your thermostat to around 85°F. This keeps your home from getting too hot, which can damage electronics or cause humidity issues, while using much less energy than your usual setting.
- In the winter, aim for around 55°F. This is warm enough to prevent pipes from freezing but still keeps your energy use low.
- For businesses, if you have sensitive equipment or materials that require a more controlled climate, check the manufacturer’s recommendations for storage temperatures before adjusting your thermostat.
Don’t Turn It Off Completely
Some people believe it’s smart to shut down the system. But, completely turning off your HVAC can lead to several problems. Summer heat can cause wood floors to warp or damage electronics. High humidity and stagnant air can also lead to the growth of mold and mildew, as well as musty odors and the deterioration of materials such as paint, wallpaper, and drywall.
Winter’s freezing temperatures can cause burst pipes and water damage, and they often drive rodents to seek out the warmest spots in your home for shelter. That’s why it’s smarter to use the “thermostat on vacation” strategy: adjusting to an energy-saving setting instead of turning it off.
Programmable and Smart Thermostats Make It Easy
If you have a programmable thermostat, take advantage of its vacation settings. Many models allow you to set a “hold” temperature that remains steady until you return. For those with smart thermostats, it’s even easier. You can use your phone to adjust the temperature if your plans change, whether you’re extending your trip or heading home sooner than expected.
Some smart thermostats use sensors to automatically adjust for outdoor temperature changes and can even detect sudden drops in indoor temperatures that may signal frozen pipes.
For more seasonal thermostat tips, check out this guide to getting the most out of your thermostat all year long.
Don’t Forget Humidity and Airflow
While you’re adjusting your thermostat on vacation, it’s also smart to think about humidity and airflow. In humid summer months, set your air conditioning to circulate the air occasionally, even at a slightly higher temperature. This helps prevent musty odors and mold growth.
In the winter, slightly lower fan settings can keep air moving enough to stop cold spots from forming near doors and windows.
Other Vacation Prep Tips
Here are a few easy ideas to save energy and keep your home safe:
- Close blinds and curtains to keep temperatures steady
- Unplug electronics and appliances that still draw power
- Make sure your smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors are working
- Set timers for lights to make your home look occupied
- Turn off water at the main valve to prevent leaks or flooding
Peace of Mind and Energy Savings
A little prep before you leave can go a long way. Adjusting your thermostat is a simple step that pays off in lower energy bills and greater peace of mind. Your home or business will stay protected, and you’ll return to find everything just as you left it, without a nasty surprise on your energy bill.
Set It Right for Peak Efficiency
Need help making sure your thermostat and HVAC system are in top shape? Contact Stacy Heating & Air Solutions today! Our experts will tune your system for maximum energy savings and home comfort.
