Vacation Soon? Set Your AC Before Leaving
A common question that residents of the New River Valley have is what temperature they should set their air conditioners at when they go on vacation. With the summer heat and humidity in this region, leaving your AC on can help keep your home cool. The good news is that you do not need to set the temperature as low as you normally would.
Recommended Temperature Settings
The U.S. Department of Energy typically recommends setting your air conditioner as close to 78 degrees as possible when you are home to save energy. That temperature also helps keep your cooling costs lower. When you go away, you can raise the temperature even higher to at least 84 degrees.
Depending on the temperature outdoors, you could choose to adjust the setting one or two degrees in either direction. However, you should try not to make the temperature more than a few degrees lower than what it is outside.
Don't Turn Your AC Completely Off
Even though you aren't home, you should not entirely turn off your air conditioning. Your air conditioner does more than just cool your home. It also helps dehumidify it. If you allow humidity to build up in your home, it can cause damage and indoor air quality problems.
When you come home from vacation, you could have a very unpleasant surprise waiting for you if your air conditioner were turned off. Humid air promotes the growth of mold and mildew. These are living organisms that can quickly grow on damp surfaces like your walls, furniture, or fabrics when there is no air circulating to keep your home dry. Humidity can also affect peel-and-stick tiles and wallpaper glue.
Playing It Smart With a Programmable Thermostat
Having a smart programmable thermostat in your home can make it easier to monitor and control your air conditioning when you are away. Most have multiple program options, including one for while you are away from home. You can also connect via your smartphone to check on your home's temperature and adjust it when needed.
If you have questions or concerns about your home's air conditioner, contact New River Heating & Air. We have been providing HVAC maintenance, repairs, installations, and indoor air quality services to residents of the New River Valley for over 30 years.