Going on vacation is a great way to relax with your friends and family. Unfortunately, the planning within the last few weeks before you go on vacation can be hectic. There are many tasks you have to remember to do. You have to pack, take care of your work responsibilities and make sure your home is in proper order. To help you take a little bit of the stress off your mind, B&L Ott has comprised a list of HVAC system vacation tips.
Raise the Thermostat
While you are away on vacation, you won’t be around to notice the temperature of your home. If it is summer, you should set your home temperature higher. This way your HVAC system doesn’t have to work as hard. A good place to set the temperature is in the high 70’s or low 80’s. This will ensure that air continues to flow throughout your home and humidity levels that low. If it is winter, you should lower your temperature for the same reason. This tip can also save some money on your electric bills.
You should not turn off your system, though. Excessive temperatures and humidity can damage the furniture and appliances in your home. You went on vacation to distress. Don’t let yourself return home only to learn that many of your possessions have been damaged.
Home Automation
Close Your Curtains and Blinds
If you leave your blinds open, sunlight will heat your home. This promotes unnecessary work for your HVAC system. The sun can raise your home’s temperature at various rates depending on the size and amount of windows. Either way, your HVAC system will have to run longer to get the air to your desired temperature. The longer your HVAC system runs, the more you pay on your energy bills.
When you’re not home, you don’t need the sunlight in your home, so it is a good idea to shade your home with curtains. Doing so will also provide extra security by preventing people from snooping. If people know you are not home, they may be more tempted to break in and steal your belongings.
Surge Protection
If your home experiences a power surge while you are away, it could mean trouble for your HVAC system. HVAC systems are only built to withstand so much voltage. When a power surge occurs, high doses of electricity are sent into your appliances. This extra energy can damage your system’s circuits and cause them to malfunction. By purchasing a surge protector before you leave, you can protect your appliances. Another good idea is to unplug any devices you don’t need to run while you are away.
Maintenance
Another way to guard your HVAC system while you are gone is to perform maintenance before you leave. You should clean or replace your air filter to make sure dirt buildup doesn’t cause issues. Also, be sure to look for issues such as damaged parts, rust, or refrigerant leaks. If you notice any of these warning signs, contact B&L Ott in Berks County for help. B&L Ott can also help you with making sure your HVAC system is properly maintained. You don’t want to come home to a broken HVAC system.
