Planning a vacation? Whether heading out for a long weekend or taking a two-week summer getaway, you’ve probably gone through the checklist: lock the doors, set the lights, arrange for mail pickup. But what about your air conditioner?
Your HVAC system is one of the most energy-hungry systems in your home, so it makes sense to consider whether to leave it running while you’re away. The answer isn’t always one-size-fits-all. Here’s a breakdown of what to do with your AC based on how long you’ll be gone, and what to consider before you leave.
For Short Trips (1–3 Days)
If you’re only going to be gone for a couple of days, there’s no need to shut off your AC entirely. In fact, doing so could cause your home to heat up unnecessarily, making your system work harder when you return.
What to do:
Set your thermostat a few degrees higher than usual, around 78–80°F. This reduces energy use while still protecting your home from excessive heat and humidity, which can affect wood floors, electronics, and even indoor plants.
Bonus Tip: If you have a smart thermostat, program a return-to-normal schedule so your house is cool when you walk through the door.
For Extended Trips (4+ Days)
For longer getaways, you’ll want to weigh energy savings against protecting your home from heat-related damage. Turning off your AC entirely might save money upfront, but it can invite problems like high humidity, mold growth, and extra wear when your system has to work overtime upon your return.
What to do:
Instead of turning the AC off, raise the thermostat to around five degrees higher than it’s usually set at. This keeps the indoor temperature from soaring too high while cutting back on energy consumption.
If your area experiences high humidity (like Omaha and Dubuque often do in the summer), it’s wise to keep your system running at a minimal level to help with moisture control. Pairing your AC with a whole-home dehumidifier or leaving ceiling fans on low can also help protect furniture, flooring, and electronics.
Other Considerations
Close the blinds and curtains to block out direct sunlight and reduce heat gain.
Unplug unnecessary electronics to reduce heat and avoid power surges.
Change your air filter before you leave to ensure proper airflow while the system runs.
Consider a maintenance check-up with ServiceOne HVAC if you haven’t had one recently, especially before a longer trip.
Should You Turn It Off Completely?
Only if your home is empty, well-insulated, and you live in a mild climate. Otherwise, turning off the AC completely can lead to extreme temperatures, warped wood, mildew, and higher utility bills when the system has to work harder to cool the house back down.
Trust ServiceOne HVAC While You’re Away
Before your next vacation, let ServiceOne make sure your HVAC system is in top shape. Our expert techs can help with AC inspections, smart thermostat installation, and system efficiency improvements so you can relax on vacation knowing your home is comfortable and protected. Schedule your pre-trip ServiceOne HVAC check today!