Who’s excited about summer? I know I am! According to research gathered in July 2021, 98% of Americans plan on traveling this summer. After the past two years, we could all use a shift in scenery! Wherever you intend to visit this summer, it is always practical to make a checklist to set yourself up for a better stress-free vacation. Milford Heating & Cooling has a few recommendations to add to your list to guarantee a well-maintained HVAC system upon your return!
What Does Raising the Thermostat Temperature While I’m Away Do?
Much like yourself, your HVAC system could use a vacation. What better moment than while you are gone? The general rule of thumb is to turn up your thermostat four degrees higher than the temperature you usually prefer. As a result, you will maximize your savings without stressing your system upon your return. If you change it too much, your system will work double-time to re-cool your home, wasting away those savings with a higher electric bill. With that being said, having a programmable thermostat is ideal. This is because a programmable thermostat allows you to control your system away from home, alert you and your service provider if something is wrong, and can even help give you some peace of mind.
Why Use Surge Protectors?
Whether you love them or hate them, Ohio’s thunderstorms are prevalent in the summer and, therefore, need to be considered when writing up your vacation plans. You may be relaxing on a sunny beach, thinking, why worry about that? Thunderstorms are never without lightning, putting your HVAC system at risk. Surge protectors avoid possible damage by changing the course of high voltage surges away from your HVAC system and into the ground, protecting it when lightning hits! Appliances, such as refrigerators and air conditioners, puts stress on your home’s electrical system, causing it to work harder. Additionally, power surges are common in the summer since there is a higher energy demand for your household appliances including your cooling devices.
Should I Change My Air Filter Before Summer Vacation?
When traveling, there is a possibility of exposure to multiple allergens that can kick your sinuses into hyperdrive. Securing your home with a fresh air filter can help curb extended allergy symptoms upon your return. Because, in reality, I don’t know a single person who is eager to unpack and get directly back to household duties upon first returning from their vacation. Getting yourself motivated to get back to the swing of things will be a challenge if allergies are persistent in causing you discomfort. Plus, the humid Ohio heat will mean your AC will need to be utilized more frequently, leading to a higher volume of air circulating throughout your system. Due to the higher volume, more airborne contaminants will get caught in the filter. Therefore, it’s in your best interest to replace your HVAC air filters more often in the summer. Keeping a clean air filter will help ensure adequate air filtration, so you can come home to your preferred temperature as well as excellent indoor air quality.
Taking a vacation is great for your mental and physical health. As if you needed another excuse to take a break, research has shown that people who travel have less stress, greater motivation, and an overall more positive attitude toward life. Our crew at Milford Heating & Cooling wants you to relish your hard-earned vacation without any needless stress for you, your pockets, and your HVAC system! Call us today at (513) 655-5112, or schedule an appointment online now by clicking here!
