Air Conditioning / August 20, 2019

5 Ways to Get Your Air Conditioner Ready for Your Extended Vacation

If you plan to take an extended vacation this summer, now’s the time to prepare your home. If you’re like most people, you know that you need to put your lights on a timer to keep the burglars away. You might even know to turn the water supply off to faucets and toilets to prevent floods.

However, you might not know that you need to give your air conditioner extra attention prior to an extended vacation.

If you thought that the safest step would be to turn your air conditioner off while you’re gone, that’s not likely the case. Your home can suffer considerable damage if you turn the air conditioner off during an extended vacation. Here are some steps you need to take to get your air conditioner ready for your vacation.

1. Service Your Air Conditioner
   If you’ll be gone for an extended period of time this summer, make sure your air conditioner is ready to be alone. If you haven’t serviced your air conditioner in a few years, schedule a service appointment before you leave. Without proper maintenance, your air conditioner may break down while you’re away. For example, issues related to the electrical wires or the pilot light could put your home at risk for damage.
2. Connect Your AC to a Surge Protector
   If your home will be unattended while you’re on vacation, protect your air conditioner against possible power surges. If your air conditioner doesn’t connect to a surge protector, take care of that as soon as possible.

   If you’re like most people, you might think that electrical surges only happen during lightning strikes. However, that’s not actually the case. Power surges can also occur when an additional burst of electricity surges through the system at the start of a cycle. Protect your air conditioner from those bursts with a surge protector.

3. Program Your Thermostat
   If you plan to leave your air conditioner on while you’re away this summer, take steps to control the temperature inside your home. The best way to do that is with a programmable thermostat. Set your thermostat for about 85 degrees while you’re away. That way, your home stays cool enough to prevent heat damage. If you don’t have a programmable thermostat in your home yet, install one before you leave on vacation.
4. Change the Filter
   If you haven’t changed the filter in a few months, take care of that before you leave for vacation. A dirty air filter will wreak havoc on your air conditioner, especially if the filter pleats have dirt.

   Your air conditioner requires adequate air through the ducts. If your filter is dirty, your air conditioner must work harder to produce sufficient airflow through your home. A fresh filter ensures adequate airflow while you’re away.

5. Ensure Adequate Circulation
   If you haven’t checked the area around your exterior air conditioner unit, that should be on your list of things to do right away. This is particularly important if you think that you might have debris around the unit. Debris such as weeds, tall grass, boxes, or other items block the airflow to your air conditioner. Unfortunately, if that happens, your air conditioner will likely overheat while you’re away. Before you leave, clear the area around your air conditioner to ensure adequate airflow and circulation.

Don’t take chances with your air conditioner. If your summer plans include an extended vacation, use the tips here to protect your air conditioner and keep your home cool. If your air conditioner is in need of a summer service call and you live in the San Diego area, contact us at Mauzy Heating, Air & Solar