When planning your summer vacation, it’s important to think about what you’ll leaving behind as much as where you’ll be going. While you might find it unusual, you should make sure your HVAC system is in good condition before your trip.
Even if you won’t be in your home to actually use it, you can’t let the heat and humidity inside your house get out of control. Otherwise, colonies of mold and other harmful microorganisms may welcome you upon your return.
To enjoy your getaway worry-free, do the following to ensure your air conditioning equipment won’t cause you any headaches while you’re away:
Start Off With Filter Maintenance
Lesson number one is to make sure your air filter is clean and dry. This component keeps dust from building up inside your cooling unit and damaging its sensitive interior parts. Although it’s designed to get dirty, a clogged filter will restrict incoming air, and inadequate airflow makes it harder for your air conditioner to breathe and do its job properly.
If you have a basic air filter, you normally need to replace it 30 to 90 days after installation. If you have a more efficient one, you may be able to continue using it for a longer period if time. If your relatively fresh filter is riddled with mold, however, it’s become compromised and should be changed immediately .
Arrange a Professional Inspection
In the Bay Area, it’s advisable to get your HVAC system thoroughly checked by a qualified technician before summer rolls around. It’s a good idea to schedule an appointment early, as late spring and summer are usually busy seasons for HVAC professionals due to the high demand for services. All air conditioner maintenance duties should be completed as soon as possible so they won’t conflict with your vacation plans.
Don’t Let Indoor Temperatures Exceed 85°F
Lastly, set your thermostat to somewhere between 79°F and 86°F. The temperatures in this range create ideal conditions to combat solar heat gain and curb excessive indoor humidity. If you’ll be leaving pets at home, ask your vet about the ideal thermostat settings for them. This way your little friends will stay safe and comfortable the whole time you’re gone.
Set Up a San Jose Air Conditioning Checkup
Let us make sure your air conditioning system will operate flawlessly while you’re away on vacation. Call Air Quality at 408-920-3910 to schedule your appointment.