How to Set Your Thermostat for Winter Vacation

The winter months are upon us and it is a great time to get family together. Many people are making plans to travel for the holidays. In fact, during the season one in three Americans spends time away from home or goes on vacation. If you plan to be away for more than a couple of days there is a lot to do before setting off. Along with getting your bags packed, don’t forget to take care of furnace repair in San Jose, CA. The last thing you want is to come home from vacation to a disaster.

Prepare for Winter Vacation

While you are away you want your home to use less energy, but you also don’t want pipes to freeze or pets to get too cold. Here are some steps to help prepare your home and safeguard your HVAC system while you are away:

1. Adjust the Thermostat

There are several variables to consider when setting your thermostat. You need to consider the type of heating and cooling system, the home insulation capabilities, the amount of time you plan to be away, and the expected temperatures while you are gone. You also need to think about keeping temperatures comfortable for any pets while you are away.

In the winter, we recommend you set your thermostat between 50 and 60 degrees for long-term vacations. This prevents the furnace from operating unnecessarily. Any lower and you might risk freezing the coolant coils or pipes freezing and bursting. If you will only be gone a couple of days it might be better to leave it at a warmer temperature because it will take more energy to return to the home to a usual temperature once you are back.

2. Set the Water Heater and Check all the Faucets

Don’t shut off the water pump completely, or the pipes are more likely to freeze. Instead, set it to vacation mode” to help the water heater operate at the lowest setting to save energy and water, but also keep the pipes from freezing. You should also go around to check all the faucets and toilets to make sure water isn’t constantly running while you are away.

3. Unplug Electronics

Aside from your major appliances and things like smoke detectors and home alarms, it is a good idea to unplug your electronics. A lot of these continue to draw power, even if you aren’t using them. So unplug them if you plan to be gone for a few days.

4. Plan for a Neighbor to Check on Things

If you plan to be away for more than just a couple of days it is a good idea to have a trusted neighbor check on your home occasionally to make sure everything is alright. Have then check on the mail, check on pets, or even just check on your home for safety.

Have more questions about how to prepare your HVAC system for vacation or need furnace repair in San Jose, CA? We can help you out. Contact Pelle Heating and Air Conditioning. Call us at (408) 800-2791. Or stop by 1045 N 10th St San Jose, CA 95112.