Vacation-Proofing Your HVAC: How to Prepare Your System Before You Leave

Planning a vacation is exciting, but before you head out of town, it’s essential to consider how your home will function while you’re away, particularly your HVAC system. If you live in or around Hickory, North Carolina, summer heat and humidity can negatively impact your home. Preparing your HVAC before vacation prevents high energy bills, system strain, and poor air quality. Instead of turning it off, set it to recommended HVAC vacation settings. Use these tips to vacation-proof your HVAC system to travel confidently and return to a comfortable, damage-free home.

Adjust Your Thermostat Using Recommended HVAC Vacation Settings

One of the most effective ways to conserve energy while away is to adjust your thermostat appropriately. Most modern systems come with HVAC vacation settings, allowing you to set a higher temperature during the summer months or a lower one during the winter without turning the system off entirely.

If you’re traveling during the summer:

• Set your thermostat to around 85°F to reduce energy use while controlling humidity. If you have pets, aim for 75-80°F to ensure their comfort.

For winter travel:

• Set your thermostat to around 60°F (65-70°F if you have pets) to prevent freezing pipes and protect your home from cold-related damage.

If you have a programmable or smart thermostat, use the scheduling features to gradually bring your home to a comfortable temperature before you return. By applying energy-saving HVAC tips for vacation, such as adjusting your thermostat, you can avoid wasting energy and help reduce utility costs during your trip.

Check and Replace the Air Filter

Before heading out, take a moment to inspect your HVAC air filter. A clean filter ensures good airflow and reduces the strain on your system while you’re gone.

Steps to take:

• Replace the filter if it’s clogged or dirty.
• Use a high-quality filter if your trip will be longer than two weeks.

This simple action contributes to better efficiency and helps protect your HVAC while on vacation by preventing the buildup of dust and debris in the system.

Close Curtains and Blinds to Reduce Heat Gain

Sunlight streaming through your windows can raise the indoor temperature quickly, especially during Hickory’s hot summer afternoons. To help your system maintain a more stable temperature:

• Close all curtains and blinds before you leave.
• Consider blackout or thermal curtains to reduce solar heat further.

Reducing heat gain inside your home ensures your HVAC system doesn’t have to work overtime, resulting in lower energy usage while protecting your interior.

Seal Doors and Windows

Air leaks around windows and doors can reduce the effectiveness of your HVAC system, even when it’s running on low. Before leaving:

• Inspect and seal any gaps around doors and windows with weatherstripping or caulk.
• Ensure all windows are fully closed and locked to create a tight seal.

This simple step enhances the efficiency of your system and ensures you’re truly preparing your HVAC before vacation.

Clear the Area Around Your Outdoor Unit

Debris, grass, and leaves around your HVAC system can affect performance. Before departing:

• Trim any plants or grass within two feet of the unit.
• Clear away any debris that could obstruct airflow or cause overheating.

Maintaining your system’s exterior is a key part of vacation-proofing your HVAC and helps prevent unexpected issues while you’re out of town.

Use a Surge Protector to Prevent Damage

Power surges during thunderstorms can damage your HVAC system. Consider:

• Installing a whole-house surge protector.
• Using an individual surge protector for the HVAC unit if one isn’t already installed.

Taking this precaution helps protect your HVAC while on vacation from electrical damage that could lead to expensive repairs.

Turn Off Unnecessary Appliances and Electronics

While you’re away, electronics left on may generate heat that your HVAC system must counteract. Reduce the load on your system by:

• Unplugging TVs, gaming consoles, computers, and small appliances.
• Using smart plugs or timers for the lights you want to keep on for security.

Reducing the internal heat load is one of the most effective energy-saving HVAC tips for vacation, especially during the hottest parts of the year.

Schedule a Maintenance Check Before You Leave

If you’re planning a more extended trip or it’s been a while since your last HVAC service, scheduling a professional inspection is a good idea. A technician from Hickory Sheet Metal can:

• Inspect and tune up your system.
• Ensure components like refrigerant lines and electrical connections are in top condition.
• Identify and fix any minor issues before they become significant problems.

Routine service is a proactive approach to preparing HVAC before vacation, ensuring your system runs smoothly while you’re away.

Ask a Trusted Neighbor or Friend to Check In

For extended absences, it’s a good idea to ask someone you trust to stop by occasionally to ensure everything functions as it should. They can:

• Check for signs of HVAC issues like unusual noises or temperatures.
• Notify you if the system seems to be running continuously or not at all.
• Contact a professional if there’s a problem.

This simple step adds a layer of protection and helps vacation-proof your HVAC system more effectively.

Hickory Sheet Metal Is Here to Help

Hickory Sheet Metal has been a trusted name in HVAC services throughout Hickory, NC, and surrounding communities for nearly a century. Whether you need help programming your HVAC vacation settings, scheduling a maintenance check, or upgrading to a more efficient system, our experienced, factory-trained technicians are here to help.

We understand local homeowners’ challenges during the summer months and offer tailored, energy-efficient solutions to keep your HVAC system running at its best, whether at home or away.

Contact Us Today to Protect Your HVAC System

From adjusting your thermostat to scheduling a professional inspection, these simple steps can help protect your HVAC while on vacation and ensure everything runs smoothly upon your return. Contact Hickory Sheet Metal today to schedule your HVAC maintenance in Hickory, NC, or speak with a technician about preparing your HVAC system before a vacation.