Holiday Travel and HVAC
An outdoor AC unit doesn’t respond well to clutter around it.
HVAC systems should not be forgotten when leaving for a holiday trip. The heating, ventilation, and air conditioning system must stay protected and functional to keep a home comfortable when a family returns.
Here are some ways to take care of the HVAC systems while on holiday vacation:
Vents need breathing room
Keep all vents open and unblocked. It helps temperatures remain even throughout the house, which is better for everything and everyone inside.
Outdoor unit care
An outdoor AC unit doesn’t respond well to clutter around it. Keeping it clear of leaves and debris means it can do its job without issues.
Smart thermostat
A smart thermostat gives homeowners full control of the temperature in the house, even remotely. Adjust the settings using an app on a smartphone to keep the energy bill down and any plants and pets back home comfortable.
Clean air for parties
Give the HVAC a quick check before everyone arrives for a holiday party. Fresh air filters and clean ducts can improve indoor air quality.
Seal it tight
Drafty windows or doors are less than ideal, especially during holiday parties. Seal them up to keep the warm air in and the heating system working at its best.
Make it programmable
A programmable thermostat can be one less thing to worry about over the holiday. Lower it when the house is empty or when everyone’s asleep to save on energy.
Heat pumps also need care
If the house has a heat pump instead of the typical HVAC, learn how it works, especially in emergency heat mode. Keep its outdoor unit clear of snow and ice.
Decorate wisely
Holiday decorations shouldn’t block vents or thermostats. And remember, space heaters are handy but can considerably increase energy bills. Use exhaust fans to handle extra heat.
Vacation HVAC settings
Finding a sweet spot for the HVAC settings while away is important. Doing so can save a home from damage and reduce energy bills.
Don’t turn off the AC completely
Shutting down the AC completely can lead to festering humidity, which isn’t good for anything. Try keeping it set to approximately 84 degrees in summer to avoid mold and high energy costs.
Think of the pets
If any pets remain home while residents are away on vacation, it’s worth double-checking the best temperature settings for their comfort. And make sure they have plenty of water.
Ease back into it
After returning from holiday travel, resist the urge to crank the thermostat. If it’s a smart thermostat, remotely set it to a comfortable level a few hours before returning home. This saves energy and is gentler on the HVAC system.
Stay comfortable at home even during holidays
The HVAC system needs some care even when the home’s residents are away. But this is made easy with programmable and smart thermostats that keep everything running.
It’s best to have a professional HVAC servicing company check the system for any issues before holiday parties and trips to avoid unpleasant surprises.
Above and Beyond Air Conditioning & Heating is a San Antonio residential and commercial heating and air conditioning company dedicated to providing the highest level of home comfort. Call us today at (210)794-9895.
