Should You Turn Your AC Off While on Vacation?
You’ve planned the perfect trip, packed the bags, and you’re ready to go. But what about your house? You should make certain preparations for your home before you leave, including deciding whether to leave your AC on while on vacation or what temperature to set your AC when you’re not home.
Turning your AC off completely may seem like a good way to save energy. However, it can cause more harm than good, especially during a hot summer in Chicagoland.
Why You Shouldn’t Turn Your AC Off While on Vacation
You may think it’s best to turn off your HVAC system when you are away. However, not having climate control can cause many problems for your home.
- Heat and humidity buildup can warp wood flooring, damage electronics, and create the perfect environment for mold and mildew.
- A hot, humid home can attract pests or leave behind unpleasant odors.
- Your cooling system may have to work overtime when restarted, especially after a long stretch of extreme heat.
The Best Temperature to Set Your AC While You’re Away
Knowing what the best temperature to set your AC when you’re not home depends on a few factors, such as:
- How long you’re going to be away
- If there are pets or plants in your home
- If your home will be completely unoccupied
The ideal temperature to protect your property and HVAC system is between 80 and 85 degrees Fahrenheit. This will maintain safe humidity levels and is energy efficient.
Is It Ever Ok To Turn Your AC Off?
There might be specific scenarios where leaving your AC off completely while you’re out of town makes sense. If you plan to be away for more than two weeks, consider how well insulation protects your home. It might also be ok to shut your system down if there are no pets or humidity-sensitive items in your home.
However, before making that decision, it’s important to:
- Check the weather for high heat or humidity while you’re away
- Have you taken steps to reduce indoor heat gain?
- Close curtains or blinds
- Unplug appliances
- Turn the fans on for airflow
- Consider your home’s ventilation and the risk of mold or mildew
Even if you have done everything right, leaving the AC on when you're on vacation might be better in the long run.
Pre-Vacation HVAC Checklist
Before you hit the road, use this checklist to prep your HVAC system and keep your home safe:
- Set the thermostat to 80–85°F
- Close blinds or curtains to block direct sunlight
- Replace your air filter to maximize airflow
- Clear debris from around your outdoor AC unit
Get Peace of Mind Before You Travel
If you haven’t had your HVAC system checked recently, scheduling a quick inspection before you leave can ensure everything runs smoothly while you're gone and when you return.
It may be a good idea to upgrade to a smart thermostat. This lets you check your home’s temperature and humidity from your phone while relaxing on the beach or exploring a new place.
Protect Your Home While You’re Away with Help From Master Mechanical
At Master Mechanical, we help homeowners across the Chicagoland area keep their HVAC systems running efficiently year-round. From AC maintenance to smart thermostat installation, we’ve got your comfort covered, even when you’re not home.
Need help preparing your HVAC system for vacation? Contact Master Mechanical today for professional AC service, smart thermostat solutions, or seasonal maintenance before your next trip.
