How to Prepare Your AC for a Long Vacation

Going away for weeks? Pause for a moment. Imagine stepping back into your home, suitcase in hand, only to be greeted by stuffy air, a musty smell, or—worse—a broken AC unit. That’s a homecoming nobody wants.

At Right On AC, we know how fast little problems can turn into big, expensive ones when your cooling system is left unchecked. Whether you’re leaving for a family holiday or a business trip, a bit of prep now saves you from headaches (and sweaty surprises) later.

Why Vacation Prep Matters 🏠

You lock your doors and close your windows, but what about your AC? A neglected system can lead to everything from rising utility bills to unexpected breakdowns. Think of your AC like a car parked for weeks—without the right prep, it might not start when you need it most.

According to the U.S. Department of Energy, leaving your system running as usual during long absences is both wasteful and risky. The right vacation prep keeps your house safe, comfortable, and efficient.

AC and Thermostat Settings

Before you leave, adjust your thermostat. Don’t simply turn off your AC. That’s like rolling the dice with humidity and indoor air quality. Instead:

• Set your thermostat 7–10 degrees higher than usual (78–85°F for cooling). This keeps air circulating without overworking the system.
• For smart thermostats, use the “vacation” or “away” mode. This automates temperature setbacks and can alert you to sudden changes.
• Manual thermostats? Set and double-check before locking up.

If you’re not sure which settings work best for your home, Right On AC offers help with thermostats to make sure you’re set up right.

Maintenance Before Leaving

A quick tune-up can make all the difference. Schedule AC maintenance before your trip, especially if it’s been a while. Here’s why:

• Dust and debris clog filters and coils, forcing your system to work harder.
• Worn parts might fail after weeks of running without anyone noticing.
• Leaks—in ducts or refrigerant—can fester and worsen.

A professional checks refrigerant levels, clears drain lines, and ensures your unit is humming smoothly. Think of it as giving your AC a clean bill of health before you say goodbye.

Quick DIY Checks

Short on time? Do these before locking the door:

• Replace or clean your AC filter.
• Clear debris from outdoor units.
• Make sure vents are open and unobstructed.
• Check batteries in your thermostat.

These small steps help your system “breathe” while you’re away.

Security and Energy Tips 🔒

Vacations are about unplugging—from work, not from your home’s safety. Keep your AC safe with these practices:

• Surge protectors: Summer storms can knock out power. Protect your AC and thermostat from voltage spikes.
• Generator Installation near you: Backup power ensures your cooling and security systems keep running during outages.
• Close blinds/curtains: This reduces sun-driven heat load, so your AC works less.

The Department of Energy recommends unplugging non-essential electronics to avoid “phantom” energy drain and reduce fire risk.

Prevent Humidity and Mold

Humidity is the sneaky villain. When AC is off, moisture lingers—creating a playground for mold. To stop this:

• Leave your system running at a higher temp.
• Consider a dehumidifier for damp climates.
• Use programmable or smart thermostats to keep humidity in check.

If you already struggle with humidity, consult our team about adding whole-home dehumidifiers.

Indoor Air Quality: What You Can Do

Stale or contaminated air is common in closed-up houses. Right On AC recommends:

• Running your AC’s fan occasionally for air movement.
• Upgrading to HEPA or high-quality filters.
• Scheduling IAQ (Indoor Air Quality) testing if you’ve had recent fires, allergies, or construction.

This helps ensure you come home to fresh air, not unpleasant surprises.

Ducts, Vents & Airflow

Blocked ducts or vents make your cooling system work overtime. Before leaving:

• Check for dust or obstructions around intake and supply vents.
• If you haven’t had a duct cleaning in over a year, consider it before your trip.

Balanced airflow is key to a healthy, efficient AC.

When to Call in the Pros

You know your home best. If you hear odd noises, spot leaks, or notice uneven cooling, don’t risk coming home to a flooded floor or burned-out compressor. Schedule a professional inspection.

Even if you’re comfortable with DIY, some tasks—like refrigerant checks or electrical inspections—are best left to licensed cooling specialists.

Common Vacation Mistakes

Don’t fall into these traps:

• Turning off the AC completely.
• Forgetting to check filters.
• Leaving windows cracked “for ventilation” (lets in humidity and pests).
• Ignoring minor issues before leaving.

A little attention now prevents big repairs later.

Emergency Risks & What to Watch For

Sometimes, things go wrong despite your best efforts. Signs you may need 24-hour emergency service include:

• AC not starting or shutting off unexpectedly.
• Water pooling near the indoor unit.
• Burning smells or tripped breakers.

Keep our number handy while you’re away—just in case.

Timeline & Disruption: How Long Does Prep Take?

Most tasks above take just an hour or two. Scheduling professional maintenance? Plan ahead, especially during peak vacation seasons. Don’t leave it for the day before your flight.

Seasonal Considerations

Summer heat? Set your thermostat higher, but don’t turn off cooling completely. Winter trip? Consider switching to “fan only” mode to circulate air if your system allows.

If you’re unsure, our team at Right On AC can advise based on your system and local climate.

FAQ

Q: Should I turn off my AC for a month-long trip?
A: No. Set it higher, but let it run to manage humidity and protect your home.

Q: Is a smart thermostat worth it?
A: Yes, especially for long trips. It lets you monitor and adjust remotely.

Q: What’s the best filter to use?
A: HEPA or MERV 8–13 filters are good for most homes. Change before you leave.

The Cost of Skipping Prep

Coming home to a broken AC or moldy air is far more expensive than an hour of preparation or a quick maintenance visit. A little effort equals peace of mind—and a comfortable, healthy homecoming.

Your Next Steps

Don’t let vacation stress travel home with you. Schedule your AC tune-up, check your Thermostats, and rest easy knowing your cooling system is ready for your return.

Call Right On AC now — or reach us anytime at  888-836-1269 .