A/C Summer Vacation Checklist
Posted on May 25th, 2015 by carrolladmin
When it comes time to leave for summer vacation, many of us would agree that the only thought on our mind is getting out of the Virginia humidity! Itineraries are planned, travel details confirmed and suitcases packed. However, before you head out the door this summer for vacation, it’s important not to forget some very essential tips for your home.
From a general maintenance and security perspective, it’s wise to set timer lights, put mail on hold, double lock doors and complete yard work before leaving town. Anything that can ensure that your home has a normal appearance and appears occupied is very beneficial for safety and security. Having a trusted friend or neighbor stop by to handle some of these daily tasks is even better.
What we don’t think much about is the care and treatment of our home’s a/c system requires. It’s a mistake many homeowners make by leaving their a/c system unattended during extended periods away. Our summer vacation checklist: the top 3 tips to help ensure the comfort and safety of your home while you gone, and the efficiency and functionality of your a/c system, upon your arrival.
- Turn your thermostat up to around 10° above normal cooling temperature. Don’t turn the system off as this means you’re leaving your home without any regulated air flow. In our area, humidity can easily build up inside a hot house, causing moisture issues. Additionally, depending on the outdoor temperature, it can also put the system into overdrive trying to bring the house down to temperature once you return.
- Use programmable thermostat features. Whether your thermostat is equipped with super-smart technology or offers only basic features, you should be able to set the temperature for the day you get back. This way, the system can begin cooling down the house before you arrive. It can take several hours to return to optimum cooling temperature.
- Do a quick check of the window locks. This makes sense from a security standpoint, but it also benefits comfort and HVAC. Many windows have double latches and it’s important both are locking down the window. This creates the best possible seal to prevent warm air drafts from permeating inside through the gaps.
