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Going on an extended vacation can be exciting, but before you pack your bags and head out, it’s essential to ensure your home is well-prepared for your absence—especially your HVAC system. At AJM Mechanical, we know that properly preparing your HVAC system before you leave can save energy, prevent costly repairs, and keep your home safe while you’re away. Here’s how you can make sure your heating and cooling system is ready for your extended vacation.

1. Adjust Your Thermostat Settings

One of the simplest ways to prepare your HVAC system before you leave is to adjust your thermostat. There’s no need to keep your home at a comfortable temperature while you’re away, but you also don’t want to turn the system off completely. Instead, set your thermostat to a temperature that will save energy without causing damage to your home.

In the summer, raise the thermostat to about 85°F to avoid overworking your air conditioning while still preventing excess humidity and mold growth. In the winter, lower the thermostat to around 55°F to prevent your pipes from freezing while avoiding unnecessary heating costs.

If you have a programmable or smart thermostat, take advantage of its features by setting it to “vacation mode” or scheduling the system to adjust back to your normal temperature shortly before you return home.

2. Change Your Air Filters

Before you leave, make sure to change the air filters in your HVAC system. Dirty air filters restrict airflow and can cause your system to work harder than necessary, potentially leading to breakdowns while you’re away. A clean filter will help your HVAC system run more efficiently and reduce the risk of any issues occurring while you’re gone.

For longer vacations, consider using high-efficiency filters that can trap more dust and debris. This will ensure that your system remains as clean as possible while you’re away, improving both air quality and efficiency.

3. Turn Off the Water Heater (or Set to Vacation Mode)

If your HVAC system includes a water heater, it’s a good idea to either turn it off or set it to “vacation mode” if it has that feature. Many modern water heaters have a vacation setting that lowers the temperature and reduces energy consumption while you’re away. This simple step can help save energy and prevent unnecessary wear on the water heater.

4. Check for Leaks and Insulation Issues

Before you leave, inspect your home for any potential air leaks or insulation issues. Check doors and windows for drafts and ensure that any gaps are sealed properly. This will help maintain the temperature inside your home and prevent your HVAC system from overworking while you’re gone. Proper insulation can make a significant difference in energy efficiency and help protect your home from extreme temperatures.

5. Schedule HVAC Maintenance

If it’s been a while since your last HVAC maintenance, consider scheduling a tune-up before you leave for your extended vacation. A professional HVAC technician can inspect your system, clean components, and address any potential issues that could arise while you’re away. Preventative maintenance ensures that your system is running at peak performance and reduces the chances of unexpected breakdowns.

At AJM Mechanical, we offer comprehensive HVAC maintenance services to give you peace of mind while you’re away. Our technicians will ensure your system is in top shape so that you can enjoy your vacation without worrying about your home’s heating and cooling system.

Contact Our Philadelphia HVAC Contractors Today

Preparing your HVAC system for an extended vacation is an important step in protecting your home and reducing energy costs while you’re away. By adjusting your thermostat, changing air filters, checking for insulation issues, and scheduling regular maintenance, you can help ensure that your system runs smoothly in your absence. For expert HVAC service and maintenance, contact AJM Mechanical before your next trip.