Summertime is right around the corner, meaning it is almost time to pack your bags and take a trip to paradise. But wait! Before you leave your HVAC system behind, it is crucial to make sure it is prepared to be left unattended for an extended period.
You can do several things to ensure your HVAC and your home are still in the same condition you left them in when you return. Here are some steps to prepare your HVAC for summer vacation!
Slightly Increase Your Thermostat
You should completely turn off your air conditioning when you are gone on vacation, right? Wrong. Although it may seem like a good idea to shut everything down when you are out of town, the opposite is true. While you don’t need to leave your thermostat at its normal temperature, we recommend raising it a few degrees higher than it is normally set. This will place less stress on your HVAC and will eliminate the excess humidity that would occur if the system was completely off.
Close all Doors and Windows
The last thing you want is to return from a relaxing vacation only to realize you forgot to close a door or a window. Not only can this mistake unknowingly welcome in critters, but it can also cause your energy bill to skyrocket. So do yourself a favor and double-check all the entrances to your home and windows before you leave for your vacation.
Anticipate Summer Storms
Many homeowners are affected by storms over the summer that can often be very damaging. If you are in an area where storms frequently visit during the warmer months, make sure your HVAC is protected before your trip. A couple of steps you can take are to tie down or remove any loose items near your unit and to trim any trees near your unit. Your home’s AC system is one of the larger electrical devices you have. If you don’t have some type of “surge or power” protection, it’s recommended by every manufacturer. Surge protectors aren’t perfect, but they provide a lot of protection when it comes to storms.
Schedule an A/C Check-Up
Your summer vacations should be completely stress-free, and scheduling a maintenance appointment for your HVAC can give you the peace of mind you need. Before leaving for your vacation, have a technician perform a check-up to make sure your system is clean, safe, and running properly. Schedule your appointment a few weeks before your vacation so there is still time for your technician to perform any necessary repairs or installations.
Prepare Your HVAC With Cook Home Services
Preparation is key, and the experts at Cook Home Services are here to help make sure you can enjoy your vacation without any problems with your HVAC. If you have any questions about how to prepare your system for the summer or to schedule your appointment, give us a call at