8 Steps to Preparing Your HVAC System for Long Vacation Trips
Are you planning on taking a vacation this year? If so, you’ll need to take some steps to prepare your HVAC system for the extended period that you will not use it. Many homeowners don’t realize that their HVAC system needs to be adequately prepared for lengthy absences, so they come home to a sweltering house or an icy cold one. If you’re planning on being away from home for a long time, follow these eight simple steps to help prepare your HVAC system for long-term absence.
1. Check Your Air Filter and Change It If Necessary
Most homeowners don’t think much about their air filters unless there’s a problem with their HVAC system. However, regularly checking and changing your air filter is integral to running your system smoothly. A dirty air filter can restrict airflow and cause your system to work harder, leading to higher energy bills and premature wear and tear. In addition, a dirty filter can allow dust and other allergens to circulate through your home, potentially jeopardizing your family’s health.
By contrast, a fresh air filter will help your system to run more efficiently and keep your home free of harmful particles. For these reasons, checking your air filter and replacing it when necessary is essential. Select the right size and type for your HVAC system when changing your air filter. If you’re unsure which filter to choose, consult your owner’s manual or contact a professional. With a clean air filter, you can rest assured that your HVAC system will run smoothly while you’re on vacation.
2. Clean the Vents
The vents in your home play a critical role in the overall performance of your HVAC system. Over time, dust and debris can build up in the vents, blocking the flow of air and making it more difficult for your system to maintain a comfortable temperature. In addition, dirty vents can also lead to foul odors and increased allergens in the air. A dirt and grime buildup can cause your vent to malfunction, leading to costly repairs.
Therefore, cleaning the vents before heading for a vacation is critical. The best way to do so is to hire a professional service that specializes in HVAC maintenance. Not only will they have the tools and expertise to clean your vents properly, but they can also perform a general inspection of your system.
3. Investing in a Smart Thermostat
A smart thermostat can help save you money on energy costs while you’re away and provide peace of mind in knowing that your home is being adequately monitored. Smart thermostats can be programmed to adjust temperatures automatically based on your schedule, and many come with features like vacation mode, which can help save even more energy while you’re away.
In addition, many smart thermostats offer remote access via mobile apps, so you can check in on your home’s temperature and make adjustments if necessary — even if you’re not there. With all of these benefits, it’s easy to see why a smart thermostat is a significant investment when prepping your HVAC system for vacation.
4. Set the Temperature
As anyone who has ever come home to a stuffy house knows, the thermostat is an integral part of any HVAC system. By ensuring that your thermostat is set to the correct settings, you can save energy and money while ensuring that your home is comfortable when you return. Vacation mode or away mode ensures that your system will maintain a comfortable temperature while you are gone without wasting energy by cooling an empty house.
Additionally, using vacation mode can help prevent your home from becoming too hot or too cold while you’re gone, protecting your furniture and other belongings from damage. Finally, it can also help extend your HVAC system’s life by preventing it from working harder than necessary.
5. Check for Leaks
A small leak can quickly become a significant problem, causing water damage and expensive repairs. Furthermore, a leaking HVAC system is often the cause of mold growth, which can create health problems for you and your family. Fortunately, checking leaks is relatively easy and only takes a few minutes. Inspect the visible piping for any signs of water damage or leaking.
Next, check the condensate line. This is the line that drains water away from the unit. Make sure that it is clear and free of any obstructions. Finally, take a look at the evaporator coil. There may be a leak if there is water pooling around it. If you find any leaks, have a technician repair them before you leave on vacation. Experts from Custom Comfort Air offer quality repair and maintenance services for your HVAC system.
6. Have Your HVAC System Inspected
While it may seem like an unnecessary expense, it’s one of the best ways to protect your home while you’re away. A professional HVAC technician can identify and fix any potential problems with your system, which could prevent a costly breakdown while you’re on vacation.
In addition, regular maintenance will help extend your HVAC system’s life and keep it running at peak efficiency. So, before you head out on your next vacation, schedule an inspection and repair for your HVAC system. It’s the best way to ensure that your home is in good hands while you’re enjoying some well-deserved relaxation.
7. Dust and Vacuum Your Home
Most homeowners know that regularly dusting and vacuuming their homes is vital for keeping things clean and tidy. However, only some realize that these simple tasks can significantly impact HVAC systems. Dust accumulation can cause blockages in air vents and reduce airflow, leading to reduced efficiency and higher energy bills. In extreme cases, it can even lead to system failure. Dusting and vacuuming before you leave will help extend your HVAC system’s life and keep your home comfortable year-round.
8. Leave Your Vents and Registers Open
One of the most important things that you can do to ensure your HVAC system runs efficiently is to leave your vents and registers open. This may seem counterintuitive, but closed vents and registers strain your HVAC system and can cause it to work harder than necessary. By leaving vents and registers open, you allow air to flow freely through your home, which helps to distribute heat and cool air evenly.
This not only makes your home more comfortable, but it also helps to prolong the life of your HVAC system. So, next time you’re tempted to close a vent or register, remember that your HVAC system should keep the airflow open.
Count On the Professionals
While on vacation, the last thing you want to worry about is your HVAC system. By following these simple tips, you can be sure that your home will be comfortable and energy-efficient while you’re away. If you have any questions or would like a professional to look at your system before you leave, Custom Comfort Air is available to help.
We offer comprehensive repair, maintenance, and installation of all your heating, cooling, and air quality systems in Sugar Land, Texas and the surrounding areas. We’d be happy to help ensure that your HVAC system runs smoothly so that you can enjoy your time away from home. Contact Custom Comfort Air today for exceptional HVAC services!