Going on vacation means relaxing and getting away from daily responsibilities, but that doesn’t mean you should forget about your AC system. Setting the right temperature for your AC while you’re away can save energy and protect your home from potential damage due to extreme heat or humidity. But how do you know what the best temperature is for your home in Port St. Lucie when you’re gone for a while?
Here’s a guide to help you find the ideal temperature setting while you’re on vacation, so you can save money and keep your home in good condition.
Why It’s Important to Adjust Your Thermostat
Many homeowners assume that turning off the air conditioner entirely while they’re on vacation is the best way to save energy. However, this can lead to problems, especially in places like Port St. Lucie where humidity and high temperatures are common. If your home gets too hot and humid, it can cause issues such as:
- Warping or damage to wood furniture and flooring
- Growth of mold or mildew due to high humidity levels
- Uncomfortable temperatures for pets or plants left behind
Adjusting the temperature, rather than shutting off your AC completely, ensures your home stays protected while reducing energy use.
The Best Temperature Range for Vacation
For most people, the ideal temperature to set your thermostat to while you’re away is between 80°F and 85°F. This range strikes a good balance between saving energy and protecting your home from excessive heat and humidity. If you’re only going to be gone for a few days, setting your AC to 80°F should be sufficient. However, if you plan to be away for a longer period, raising the temperature slightly closer to 85°F may be a better option.
This range allows your air conditioner to run less frequently, which reduces your energy bill, but it’s still cool enough to prevent humidity buildup and protect your home’s contents.
Use a Programmable or Smart Thermostat
A programmable or smart thermostat makes it easy to manage your home’s temperature while you’re away. With these devices, you can preset the temperature to automatically adjust once you leave, ensuring your AC doesn’t work harder than it needs to. Some smart thermostats also allow you to monitor and control the temperature remotely through a smartphone app, giving you peace of mind no matter how far you travel.
If you plan to return at a specific time, you can schedule the thermostat to lower the temperature before you arrive, so your home is comfortable when you walk in the door.
Consider Humidity Control
While temperature is important, in Florida’s climate, humidity is another critical factor. If your home becomes too humid, it can encourage mold growth and make your space feel uncomfortable when you return. Many air conditioning systems come with a “dry” or “humidity control” mode, which helps reduce the moisture in the air without lowering the temperature too much.
If your AC has this feature, consider using it while you’re away. It will help maintain a balanced indoor environment by controlling humidity levels without overworking the system.
Additional Tips to Save Energy
In addition to adjusting the thermostat, there are other simple steps you can take to reduce energy use while you’re on vacation:
- Close blinds and curtains to block out sunlight, which can raise indoor temperatures.
- Seal windows and doors to prevent hot air from entering and cool air from escaping.
- Unplug electronics and appliances that won’t be used, as they can generate heat even when turned off.
These small measures can make a significant difference in keeping your home cooler and cutting down on energy costs.
Return to a Comfortable Home
When you’re preparing for a vacation, don’t forget to adjust your thermostat before you leave. Setting it between 80°F and 85°F is an effective way to save energy and protect your home from heat and humidity. For even more control, consider installing a smart thermostat to monitor and adjust your home’s temperature remotely.
Need help setting up your AC system for optimal performance? Our team in Port St. Lucie is ready to assist you with any air conditioning needs. Contact us today to learn more about energy-efficient solutions for your home.