Before Going On Vacation: You Need To Do This, Or You Risk Thousands Of Dollars In Damage

Take These Steps Before Going On Vacation,
Or Risk Thousands Of Dollars In Damage

Avoid Costly HVAC Repairs With Proactive
Preventative Maintenance Measures

Vacations are a great time to relax, unwind and escape the daily grind of work. But before you head out of town, ensuring your HVAC system is running smoothly is essentinal. A simple routine inspection or heating and air conditioning repair could save you thousands of dollars of damage, lots of headaches, and a ruined vacation.

For an older unit, a professional inspection can help identify potential problems instead of leaving you stranded with an expensive bill when you return. If your system is newer or in good working condition, several preventative steps should be taken before leaving for vacation.

According to a study, the average cost of repairing heating and air conditioning is $300-$500. This can quickly go up to thousands of dollars if the damage is extensive or the unit needs to be replaced. With that in mind, here are some preventive measures you should consider before leaving on vacation:

Have Your HVAC System Professionally Inspected

During a standard inspection and tune-up, professional Westchester HVAC contractors will thoroughly check all major components. They’ll meticulously search for telltale signs of potential problems – such as cracks in coils or damaged fan blades. This helps prevent repairs from becoming expensive nightmares down the line.

If a technician does find any issues during the initial inspection, they’ll offer practical solutions tailored specifically for your home and advise you on how best to address them before leaving for vacation. This could prevent costly repairs and improve efficiency and comfort during high heat or cold weather.

Clean And Change Your Air Filters

Air filters catch dirt, dust, and other debris before entering your home. This helps keep odors at bay and protects the inner workings of your unit from damage. However, air filters become clogged over time, which reduces their efficiency and could cause your unit to fail. An overworked HVAC can lead to more frequent breakdowns and more repairs from a technician.

Before leaving for your vacation, replace old air filters with new ones, or clean them if they are reusable. Doing so will help maintain healthy indoor air quality and extend the lifespan of your HVAC system.

Set The Thermostat Before You Go

Most modern thermostats have customizable schedules that allow you to set temperature setbacks for specific times of the day.

Set your thermostat at a moderate temperature – around 68°F – to ensure that your home’s pipes don’t freeze and burst while you’re away. If you’re leaving during the summer and don’t want your air conditioner to run day after day – you can shut it off completely. If you leave it on, set the thermostat at around 85°F to keep your home comfortable in your absence.

Also, have your HVAC technician check your thermostat for accuracy before you leave. This will help ensure that it is properly calibrated and can adjust temperatures while you’re away.

Remove Debris Near Outdoor Units

Outdoor HVAC units need a clear path for airflow. If the unit is blocked or obstructed, it won’t be able to cool or heat your home efficiently. Before leaving, check around your outdoor unit to ensure there’s no debris like leaves, twigs, and other items blocking the area.

Make sure to trim back any overgrown branches or shrubs close to the unit. This will ensure that your unit can get the proper airflow and prevent future issues.

Clear Air Vents And Registers

Air vents and registers are responsible for distributing air throughout your home. If these become blocked or obstructed, it can cause a great deal of discomfort – or worse. Before leaving for vacation, check all the air vents and registers in your home to make sure they are free from any furniture or rugs that may have been placed in front.

A professional HVAC technician can also help clear any dust and debris that may have accumulated on the vents and check for any blockages in the ductwork.

Surge Protection To Avoid Expensive Electrical Damage

Lightning strikes, power failures, and other electrical malfunctions can cause severe damage to your HVAC system. To avoid expensive thermostat repairs or to replace an entire unit, have a professional electrician install surge protectors for your furnace and air conditioner.

Make sure you choose the right protector for your HVAC unit. Talk with your Westchester area specialist to find the right solution for your home and budget.

Let Innovative Air Solutions Inspect Your HVAC System
Before You Go On A Vacation

At Innovative Air, our Westchester HVAC Contractors can thoroughly inspect your unit to ensure it runs smoothly and efficiently. As a Pearl-certified company, we will provide you with top-notch service and routine maintenance to keep your HVAC system well-maintained and ready for your return.

Contact us today or call us at (914) 855-1888 to book an appointment.