Heading out of town should feel exciting—not stressful. But for many homeowners, there’s always that lingering thought: Did I set the thermostat properly? Am I wasting energy while I’m gone? What if something goes wrong?
Your HVAC system is one of the biggest energy users in your home, and how you set it before leaving can impact your utility bills, system lifespan, and even the condition of your home while you’re away. The good news? With a few simple adjustments, you can leave with confidence knowing your home is protected and your system is running efficiently.
Why You Shouldn’t Just Turn Your HVAC System Off
One of the most common mistakes homeowners make is thinking they should completely shut off their heating or cooling system when they leave. It sounds logical—if no one’s home, why run it at all? The reality is, turning your system off entirely can create bigger problems than it solves.
Your HVAC system does more than just keep you comfortable. It also:
- Helps regulate humidity levels
- Protects your home’s structure and finishes
- Prevents extreme temperature swings
- Keeps plumbing from freezing in colder months
Without temperature control, your home can become too hot, too cold, or too humid—all of which can lead to damage.
The Ideal Temperature Settings While You’re Away
In the Summer (Cooling Mode)
Set your thermostat to 26°C to 28°C (78°F to 82°F)
This keeps your home warm enough to save energy, but not so hot that humidity builds up excessively or damage occurs.
In the Winter (Heating Mode)
Set your thermostat to 16°C to 18°C (60°F to 65°F)
This prevents frozen pipes, system strain, and cold-related damage.
Don’t Forget About Humidity Control
Temperature is only part of the equation—humidity matters just as much, especially in the summer. When your home gets too humid, mold and mildew can form, wood can warp, and air quality can decline.
If your system includes:
- A whole-home dehumidifier, set it to 50–55% humidity
- A heat pump or AC, it will still remove some humidity even at higher settings
Use a Smart Thermostat (If You Have One)
If your home is equipped with a smart thermostat, you’ve got a huge advantage.
- Set your system to Away or Vacation Mode
- Program a return schedule
- Monitor and adjust settings remotely
Consider Your Type of HVAC System
Not all systems behave the same, especially modern heat pumps and inverter systems.
- Avoid drastic temperature setbacks
- Maintain steady temperatures for efficiency
- Modern systems adjust output automatically
Airflow Still Matters
Even when you’re not home, your system needs proper airflow to operate safely and efficiently.• Keep all vents open
- Don’t close off rooms completely
- Ensure return vents are clear
Change or Check Your Air Filter
A dirty air filter can restrict airflow and reduce efficiency.
- Replace the filter if needed
- Use a quality filter suited to your system
Turn Off Unnecessary Accessories
Some add-ons can be adjusted while you’re away.
- Humidifier can be turned down or off
- UV lights are optional
- Exhaust fans should not run continuously
Protect Your Outdoor Unit
Your outdoor unit will continue operating while you’re away.
- Clear debris around the unit
- Ensure nothing is blocking airflow
What About Power Outages?
Smart thermostats can alert you if temperatures go out of range or the system goes offline. Otherwise, consider asking a neighbor to check in.
Coming Home: What to Expect
Allow your system time to gradually return your home to comfort.Do not drastically change temperature settings.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Turning the system off completely
- Setting extreme temperatures
- Closing vents
- Forgetting the air filter
- Ignoring humidity
Final Thoughts
Setting your HVAC system before going on vacation doesn’t have to be complicated. With a few thoughtful adjustments, you can save energy, protect your home, and enjoy your time away without worry.
