How Can Homeowners Prepare Their AC System For Summer Vacation?

Jun 7, 2022

Are you taking a vacation this summer? In July 2021, research demonstrated that 98% of Americans intend to travel this summer. After the last couple of years of periods of isolation and feeling shut off from others, we could all use a getaway! Some things are unavoidable, so it is wise to make a game plan and avoid that which can be avoided. New Albany Heating & Cooling has recommendations for your vacation planning checklist to benefit you and your home while you enjoy a much-needed voyage!

What Temperature Should My Thermostat Be Set to While I’m on Vacation?

Remember to give your HVAC system a much-needed vacation while you take one yourself. Doing so will benefit your system without compromising your comfort. The general rule states to turn up your thermostat four degrees from your desired temperature, simultaneously creating an opportunity for saving on unnecessary expenses while lowering the chance for system burn-out. Expect your system to burn out if you alter the temperature too much. An overworked system will cost you more money in its efforts to re-cool your home. There is nothing to gain from a broken AC or a higher electric bill. If you think you will forget to adjust the temperature before leaving, or if you are away from home a lot, it would be very profitable for you to acquire a programmable thermostat! Programmable thermostats enable you to oversee your home’s temperature while you aren’t there to see it for yourself. Further, programmable thermostats can warn you and your service provider if something malfunctions, helping you find a little peace of mind during your adventures.

What Exactly Do Surge Protectors Provide for My HVAC System?

If you live in Ohio, you will experience many thunderstorms throughout the spring and summer months. For this reason, you should consider the weather when planning a trip away from home. You may be soaking up the sun somewhere else, but that doesn’t mean Ohio’s elements will magically stop being so erratic while you’re gone. Your main concern is the lightning guaranteed to be present in a thunderstorm. Lightning is a real threat to your HVAC system. By implementing surge protectors, you avoid possible damage to your system by rerouting the direction of high voltage surges away from your AC and into the ground. Even if there isn’t a thunderstorm close to home, it is essential to point out that power surges are widespread in the summer. The reason is that the increase in energy demand from your home cooling devices maximizes the exertion of your home’s electrical system.

Do I Need to Change My Air Filter While I’m Away This Summer?

When traveling the earth this summer, there is a more significant chance of exposure to indoor and outdoor allergens that can rock your whole world. Conserving a clean air filter within your home can encourage a decrease in these allergy symptoms upon returning home. Truthfully, I don’t know anyone enthusiastic to unpack or even get back to household duties, for that matter, when first coming home. That motivation will prove more challenging to obtain if you’re also battling allergy symptoms. Ohio’s humid summer heat will also mandate your AC work consistently, expanding the air volume administered through your system. Due to this accumulation, more airborne pollutants will get trapped in your filter. Thus, it is in your best interest to replace your air filter often, regardless of whether you travel this summer or not. Maintaining a clean filter will promote adequate air filtration so that you can come home to enhanced indoor air quality. 

Vacations are not only beneficial to your mental health; they can affect your physical health too. Research invariably reflects that people who travel are more inclined to have less stress, find greater motivation, and enhance their overall outlook on life. Our hard-working crew at New Albany Heating & Cooling hopes you find joy and comfort in your travels without any unnecessary stress coming from your HVAC system or your wallet! Call us today at (614) 636-5002, or schedule an appointment online now by clicking here!