Living in Florida, your air conditioner isn’t just a convenience — it’s a lifeline. With our state’s heat and humidity, especially during the long summer months, having a working AC system is essential not just for comfort, but also for health, safety, and sometimes even the integrity of your home. That’s why, especially at the time of year when so many travel, it’s so common to ask what temp to set your AC when on vacation?
If you’re planning to be away for a few days or even several weeks, you might be tempted to turn your AC off altogether to save on energy bills. But is that really the best move? Let’s break it down, explore best practices, and help you prepare your home — and HVAC system — for vacation.
Should You Turn Off the AC When on Vacation?
The short answer? No. Turning off your air conditioner while you’re away can do more harm than good.
While it might seem logical to shut everything down when the house is empty, your air conditioner does more than just cool the air. One of its key functions is controlling humidity. Florida’s climate is notoriously humid, and without your AC running, the moisture levels inside your home can rise quickly. While you might think it doesn’t matter if you’re not there to experience it, excessive indoor humidity can lead to a long list of problems, including:
- Mold and mildew growth
- Warping or swelling wood and expanded doors
- Paint bubbling or peeling
- Musty odors
- Possible damage to electronics and artwork
That’s why leaving your AC running — at least at a higher temperature than usual — is the smarter and safer solution. That leaves us with deciding what temp to set your AC when on vacation. Let’s look at the recommendations.
What Temp to Set Your AC When on Vacation — Ideal Settings
According to the U.S. Department of Energy, setting your thermostat to 85°F while you’re on vacation is optimal during warmer months. While that might seem a bit warm for regular living, remember — no one’s home. This setting strikes the perfect balance between saving energy and preventing humidity-related damage.
Here are a few benefits of keeping your thermostat around 85°F while you’re away:
- Maintains indoor humidity control
- Protects your home’s structural integrity
- Prevents mildew and moisture buildup
- Cuts down energy usage and utility costs
- Keeps your HVAC system running smoothly without overworking
If you’re still wondering what temperature to set your ac when on vacation, remember: you want it high enough to save energy, but low enough to manage humidity. In humid states like Florida, that balance is crucial.
Tips for Preparing Your Home and HVAC System Before Vacation
Before you head out for a well-earned getaway, take a little time to prepare your home and HVAC system. This helps ensure peace of mind while you’re away and can prevent any unpleasant surprises when you return.
Here are some simple steps you can follow:
1. Set Your Thermostat Properly
As stated above, you can set your thermostat higher when you go on vacation during the summer months. For many people, setting your thermostat between 80°F and 85°F is a sweet spot for energy efficiency and protecting your home from the effects of humidity. If you’re not sure what temperature to set your AC when on vacation, this range can be a helpful rule of thumb.
2. Change or Clean the Air Filter
A dirty air filter can restrict airflow and make your AC less efficient. Replacing or cleaning it, if you haven’t done so recently, can help ensure that your system runs smoothly while you’re away.
3. Close Curtains and Blinds
Blocking out sunlight helps keep indoor temperatures lower naturally and reduces the load on your AC system. It also adds a layer of security by keeping prying eyes out.
4. Unplug Unnecessary Appliances
Even in standby mode, appliances can draw power. In addition to turning off the lights, unplug anything you won’t be using while you’re away, such as TVs, toasters, coffee makers, and computers.
5. Check for Leaks and Drafts
Ensure windows and doors are sealed tightly. Any leaks can let warm, moist air into your home, making your AC work harder and increasing the risk of humidity issues.
6. Have a Friend or Neighbor Check In
Ask someone you trust to stop by occasionally, especially if you’ll be gone for more than a week. They can make sure everything is running smoothly, including your HVAC.
Temperature Setting Tips Based on Trip Duration
How long you’re away can also influence what temp to set your AC when on vacation. Here’s a quick guide:
- Weekend getaway of two to three days: 80–82°F is typically fine. Your house won’t have time to heat up significantly.
- One to two weeks: 83–85°F is recommended. This provides energy savings without compromising humidity control.
- Extended trips of three weeks or more: This is a recommended timespan to set and maintain your thermostat at 85°F. If you’re especially concerned about moisture, consider a dedicated dehumidifier and ensure it’s set up and functioning correctly before you leave.
Benefits of Using a Programmable Thermostat
One of the best ways to manage your indoor temperature while you’re away is by installing a programmable thermostat. These devices allow you to pre-set temperatures based on your schedule.
Here’s why they’re worth considering:
- Convenience: Program your cooling schedule for day and night, as well as weekdays and weekends.
- Energy savings: Maintain efficient settings even when you’re not thinking about it.
- Comfort: Return to a comfortable, pre-cooled home by setting your AC to begin cooling before you arrive.
- Consistency: Programmable thermostats eliminate the need to remember adjustments every time you leave.
If you still have questions about what temp to set your AC when on vacation, a programmable thermostat can do some of the thinking and heavy lifting for you.
Smart Thermostats: Control From Anywhere
Want even more control? A smart thermostat might be your perfect solution.
These devices connect to your Wi-Fi, allowing you to manage your home’s temperature remotely through an app. Benefits of smart thermostats include:
- Remote access: Forgot to set the thermostat before you left? No problem — you can adjust it from your phone.
- Vacation flexibility: If your plans change, you can change your settings on the go.
- Energy reports: Many smart thermostats provide usage stats, helping you track savings and optimize performance.
- Integration: They can often work seamlessly with other smart home devices, such as lights and security systems.
With a smart thermostat, answering what temp to set your AC when on vacation becomes easy and accessible from anywhere in the world.
What If You Don’t Have a Programmable or Smart Thermostat?
No worries! Most people haven’t made the leap and are still using a set-it-yourself thermostat. If you’re working with a traditional unit, you can still take steps to protect your home and save energy:
- Adjust the dial or setting manually to 85°F before leaving.
- Pair with a portable dehumidifier, especially in areas like basements or rooms that stay closed.
- Rely on blackout curtains or heat-blocking window films to reduce solar heat gain.
While it’s more hands-on, you can still get great results — and save money — without the latest tech.
Peace of Mind While You’re Away
When deciding what temp to set your AC when on vacation, it’s all about striking a balance. You want to minimize your electricity bill without risking damage to your home from heat and humidity. For Florida homeowners, especially, the humidity factor makes this an important consideration.
By preparing your home ahead of time, maintaining your HVAC system, and using the right thermostat settings or tools, you can travel with peace of mind, knowing your home is protected.
HVAC Issues in Central Florida? We Can Help
At Complete Air Mechanical, our team of experienced HVAC professionals is dedicated to helping you maintain energy efficiency, comfort, and peace of mind — whether you’re home or away. We proudly serve homeowners and businesses throughout Orange, Osceola, Seminole, and Volusia counties, and we offer flexible financing options to suit your needs.
Whether you’re wondering what temp to set your AC when on vacation, thinking about upgrading your system, or just need a maintenance check-up before your next trip, we’re here to help.
Call us today at (407) 915-0144 or schedule an appointment online to get started.