How to Prepare Your HVAC System for Summer Vacation

The too-short summer season often has many Wisconsinites booking relaxing or adventurous summer vacations. 

Whether you’re planning to go out of state or up north to a family cabin, it’s important to prepare your HVAC system to keep your unit running smoothly and efficiently when you’re away while also reducing excess energy costs. 

To help, our technicians have put together a checklist to complete before getting on the road. 

Pre-Vacation HVAC Checklist

Inspect and Clean Filters

  • Locate Filters: Find the filters in the return air duct or near the air handler.
  • Turn Off Your System: Make sure the HVAC system is turned off to prevent accidents to yourself or the system.
  • Remove Filters: Carefully slide out the filter, noting the airflow direction indicated on the frame.
  • Inspect Filters: Hold the filter up to a light source; if little light passes through, it needs cleaning or replacement. Look for visible dirt and debris.
  • Disposable Filters: Replace with new filters as specified in your HVAC manual.
  • Reusable Filters: Vacuum loose debris with a soft brush attachment. Rinse washable filters with lukewarm water and mild detergent, avoiding harsh chemicals and hot water. Allow the filter to air dry completely before reinstalling.

Check Thermostat Settings

  • Set Temperature: Find the best temperature for AC when on vacation, which is at a higher temperature, ideally around 78 degrees to 85 degrees Fahrenheit, to save energy while you’re away.
  • Programmable Thermostat: Installing a programmable thermostat and utilizing features to set a schedule that maintains energy efficiency without compromising home safety.
  • Smart Thermostat: A smart thermostat allows you to monitor and adjust settings remotely from your smartphone, keeping your home at optimal temperature settings even when you’re on vacation.
  • Vacation Mode: If your thermostat has a vacation mode, activate it to automatically adjust settings for energy savings.
  • Battery Check: Check to see if the thermostat’s batteries are fresh to prevent power loss when you’re not at your Wisconsin home.
  • Review Settings: Double-check all thermostat settings to confirm they are set correctly before leaving.

Inspect and Clean the Outdoor Unit

  • Turn Off Power: Switch off the power to the HVAC system to keep yourself safe during inspection and cleaning.
  • Clear Debris: Remove leaves, grass, dirt, and other debris from around the unit to prevent airflow obstruction.
  • Trim Vegetation: Trim back any overgrown plants or bushes to keep at least two feet of clear space around the unit.
  • Clean the Exterior: Gently hose down the unit’s exterior to wash away accumulated debris or grime, being careful not to damage the delicate fins.

Schedule a Professional Maintenance Check

Scheduling professional maintenance before leaving for vacation is a must to check off on your HVAC checklist if you have not already had your technician come for your regular inspection. Scheduling your maintenance a month in advance can ensure a technician can visit before you hit the road. 

One of our certified Martens Heating and Cooling technicians will inspect, clean, and tune up your system, addressing any potential issues that could cause breakdowns or inefficiencies while you’re away. This thorough inspection includes: 

  • Checking refrigerant levels
  • Inspecting electrical components
  • Making sure all parts are in optimal condition

All of these inspections keep your unit running at peak performance. 

Energy-Saving Tips for When You’re on Vacation

Close Blinds and Curtains

  • Heat Reduction and Privacy: Closing blinds and curtains while you’re on vacation can help reduce solar heat inside your home and block direct UV damage. It also adds extra privacy, making it less obvious that you’re not home, deterring potential break-ins. 
  • Energy Efficiency: Blocking out direct sunlight helps maintain cooler indoor temperatures, which can reduce the need for air conditioning while you’re away.

Unplug Non-Essential Electronics

  • Energy Savings: Unplug electronics that are not essential during your absence to reduce standby power consumption and the risk of fires or damage from power surges. 
    • Examples include chargers, small appliances, entertainment systems, and other devices that consume standby power. Since they won’t be used while you’re away, you want to unplug them to prevent excess power usage.

Contact the Experts at Martens Heating and Cooling

If you have questions about your Appleton, Oshkosh, or Neenah-area HVAC system before leaving for vacation, or if your current HVAC unit needs repairs or replacement, contact the experts at Martens Heating and Cooling today. 

With extensive knowledge and experience in the heating, ventilation, and air conditioning industry, our Omro-based team can provide valuable insights, guidance, and solutions tailored to your home. 

Whether you’re seeking advice on system maintenance, troubleshooting issues, or considering replacing your HVAC unit, our team is here to help when you need it most and in a quick turnaround time!

Our technicians travel throughout the Fox Cities area, including:

Call us today to ensure your HVAC unit continues to run smoothly and efficiently while you enjoy your summer vacation!

Call Marten's Heating & Cooling at 920-685-0111

Martens Heating & Cooling