Living in Florida, air conditioners are most homes’ crown jewel. They keep everyone comfortable, provide cleaner air, and in some cases — such as if you have an elderly family member living with you — they can be essential for health and wellbeing. That said, if you know you’re going to be away from home for an extended period of time, it makes sense to wonder what would be the most ideal setting. Should you turn it down? Turn it off completely? What’s best for your home and for your pocket?
Should you turn AC off when on vacation?
There are several things you should consider before going away on your vacation. First things first, your AC does a lot more than keep you and your family comfortable. It also plays a significant factor in your home’s structure. This is because it controls humidity. Shutting off the air conditioner would mean increased humidity. In turn, you’d be increasing the likelihood of mold growth, water damage, rotting wood, and expanded doors. Therefore, it makes sense to leave it on. So, now the question that remains is what should you set it to?
According to the Department of Energy, you can adjust your thermostat to 85 degrees when you’re not home during warmer months. It may sound like it’s high enough to be uncomfortable, but since your home is empty, it’s a good enough temperature to keep humidity in control and your home’s structural integrity intact. If you’re going away on an extended vacation, it also means savings on your electric bill. This doesn’t only apply to being away from home on vacation. Turning up your air conditioner between seven to 10 degrees while you’re away at work can also translate to about a 10% saving on your utility bill every year.
Should you consider a programmable or smart thermostat?
In addition to adjusting the temperature before you leave on vacation, you have the option of installing a programmable or smart thermostat to ensure ideal temperatures – both when you’re home and when you’re away. A programmable thermostat lets you schedule in advance when you’ll return home. The temperature will then start adjusting a bit before you arrive, so by the time you walk through your front door, your home is at a comfortable temperature.
A smart thermostat ups the ante by letting you control your AC’s settings remotely. This is beneficial for several reasons – if you forget to adjust the thermostat before leaving, you can do so from your phone. By the same token, if you decide to extend your vacation, you don’t have to worry about energy efficiency. Do a few taps through the app and you’re good to go.
If You Have Any HVAC Issues in Central Florida, We Can Help
At Complete Air Mechanical, we have experienced HVAC professionals who can ensure energy efficiency for your home or business. We provide services in Orange, Osceola, Seminole, and Volusia counties and offer financing options.
Call us today at (407) 915-0144 or schedule an appointment online.