Planning a vacation means packing bags, booking stays, and setting up travel plans. But one thing many homeowners forget is how to set their air conditioner before they leave. Setting your AC correctly while you’re away can save money, protect your home, and make things more comfortable when you return.
At ABS Heating & Air, we often get asked what temperature is best when no one is home. Let’s take a look at why this matters and how to set your system the smart way before your next trip.
While it might seem like a good idea to turn off your AC while you’re gone, doing so can create other problems in Florida’s hot and humid climate.
Here are a few things that can happen when the AC is off or set too high:
The goal is to save energy without creating new problems while you’re away.
After coming back from vacation, these are some signs your AC was turned off or set too high:
If you notice any of these after a trip, it might be time to rethink your vacation AC settings.
The best setting depends on how long you’ll be gone, but most experts recommend setting your AC between 78 and 82 degrees. This helps reduce energy use while still keeping the home cool enough to control humidity.
If you have pets staying behind, be sure to consider their comfort and safety as well. For homes with plants, wood furniture, or electronics, keeping the air flowing and temperature stable is also important.
If your thermostat can be programmed or adjusted remotely, you’re in luck. Smart thermostats allow you to change settings from your phone while you’re away. You can also set a schedule to cool your home before you return.
Benefits of using a programmable or smart thermostat include:
Even if you don’t have a smart system, many modern thermostats let you set a temporary vacation mode.
You can help your AC system do its job more efficiently by preparing your home before you leave. Small steps like closing blinds or sealing gaps around windows and doors can reduce how hard your AC has to work.
Here are a few things to check:
These tips work hand in hand with your AC settings to keep your home protected while you’re away.
Leaving your home for a few days or weeks shouldn’t mean coming back to a sauna or a huge electric bill. By setting your AC between 78 and 82 degrees, using a programmable thermostat, and preparing your home before leaving, you can enjoy peace of mind on your trip.
At ABS Heating & Air, we’re here to help you stay cool, save energy, and get the most out of your system year-round. If you have questions about your thermostat, AC maintenance, or vacation prep, give us a call. We’re happy to help.