Don’t let home worries ruin your perfect getaway!
Vacation Time is Here
Summer vacation season is finally here! Whether you’re planning a week at the beach, a mountain retreat, or visiting family across the country, there’s nothing quite like taking a break from the daily routine.
But while you’re busy packing your bags and planning your adventures, don’t forget about the house you’re leaving behind. Your home needs some care and attention while you’re away, especially during Iowa and Illinois’s hot summer months.
Why Your Empty House Needs Attention
An empty house during summer can face some real challenges. Without people coming and going, problems can build up quickly. High heat and humidity can cause issues you might not expect, and the last thing you want is to come home to an expensive surprise.
Smart Temperature Control
The biggest thing you can do to protect your home while you’re gone is to manage the temperature properly. This is where a good thermostat becomes your best friend.
A programmable thermostat can save you around $200 per year on energy bills. That’s money you could spend on your next vacation instead!
Finding the Right Temperature
When you leave for vacation, you’ll want to adjust your thermostat to save energy without causing problems. During hot summer weather, you still need some air conditioning running to protect your home.
Here’s why you can’t just turn off the AC completely:
- Mold and mildew can grow in hot, humid conditions
- Wood furniture and floors can warp in extreme heat
- Food in your pantry can spoil
- Your refrigerator has to work much harder
- Electronics can be damaged by too much heat
The Magic Number
A good rule of thumb is to set your thermostat about 5 degrees higher than normal. So if you usually keep your home at 72°F, try setting it to 77°F while you’re away.
This keeps your home safe without wasting energy on cooling an empty house.
Smart Thermostat Benefits
Modern thermostats that you can control from your phone are perfect for vacation. You can check on your home’s temperature from anywhere and adjust it before you return so it’s comfortable when you walk through the door.
Don’t Forget the Basics
Before you leave, make sure all your windows and doors are locked tight. But keep the doors inside your house open so air can move around properly. This helps your AC system work better.
Ready to Go
Summer vacation should be about fun, relaxation, and spending time with people you care about. A little planning for your home’s needs means you can focus on what really matters – enjoying your time away.
Need help getting your cooling system ready for vacation season? Contact us at 563.900.8788 or schedule on our website!