Knowing what to set your thermostat to when going away on summer vacation can be tricky. After all, you want to avoid returning to a sweltering home, but you also don't want to waste energy and money by cooling an empty house. Let's look at what temperature you should set your thermostat to when heading out of town for the summer.
When leaving for vacation, set your thermostat to 80-85 degrees. By setting your thermostat this high, you can avoid cooling an empty house for extended periods of time. However, the A/C will cycle enough to keep the humidity in check.
It may be tempting to turn your A/C off when leaving for summer vacation. This article will explain why it's better to keep your A/C running while you're away. In addition, we will answer other frequently asked questions about home cooling and energy efficiency.
What temperature should I set my thermostat to when on vacation?
It may seem like a good idea to turn off your A/C when leaving for vacation. However, it is more beneficial to your home and pocketbook to keep your A/C running while away.
When you turn your A/C off during the summer months, humidity can build up in your home, leading to mold and mildew growth.
Additionally, when you turn your A/C back on after being gone for an extended time, your system will have to work overtime to cool down your home, leading to higher energy bills.
You can avoid these issues by setting your thermostat to 80-85 degrees while you're away. Your A/C will cycle enough to keep the humidity in check, but it won't constantly be running.
However, if you have pets at home, then you can't set your thermostat quite as high. Pets can be sensitive to heat, so you'll need to adjust your thermostat accordingly.
Around 78 degrees should do the trick for most pets. This temperature will keep them comfortable while also saving you money on your energy bill.
Is it worth getting a programmable thermostat?
If you're looking for ways to save money on your energy bill, then a programmable thermostat is a good investment. Programmable thermostats allow you to set different temperatures for different times of the day.
For example, you can set your thermostat to cool your home during the day when you're away at work and then have it turn off or turn to a warmer temperature when you're home in the evening.
Not only will this save you money on your energy bill, but it will also prolong the life of your A/C unit.
If you're going on vacation, you can program your thermostat to maintain a higher temperature while you're away and then return to a cooler temperature the day before you come home.
This will ensure that your home is comfortable when you arrive, but you won't have wasted energy cooling an empty house.
What are some other ways to save money on my energy bill?
In addition to using a programmable thermostat, there are a few other ways you can save money on your energy bill.
One way to save money is to use ceiling fans. Ceiling fans use much less energy than air conditioners, so they can help keep your home cool without driving up your energy bill.
Another way to save money is to make sure your A/C unit is properly maintained. A well-maintained A/C unit will run more efficiently, saving you money on your energy bill. Keep up on your system's air filter, and have it serviced by a professional every few years.
Lastly, you can install blackout curtains or blinds to help keep your home cool. By keeping the sun out, you can reduce the amount of heat that comes into your home, which will make it easier for your A/C unit to keep home cool.
How do you reduce humidity during the summer?
Humidity in the summer can be a real problem. Not only is it uncomfortable, but it can also lead to mold and mildew growth. In addition, it can be an issue for those who have respiratory problems.
There are a few different ways you can reduce humidity in your home. One way is to use a dehumidifier. Dehumidifiers work by removing moisture from the air, which can help reduce humidity levels.
Another way to reduce humidity is to use fans. Fans help circulate air, which can help evaporate moisture and reduce humidity levels.
In addition, to using fans, proper ventilation is key. Make sure you open up doors and windows to allow fresh air to come in. This will help ventilate your home and reduce humidity levels.
If that doesn't solve the problem, you can also upgrade to an A/C unit that dehumidifies the air as it cools. This unit is more expensive, but it can be a real lifesaver during the summer months.
How long does an air conditioner last?
Most air conditioners will last about 10-15 years. However, this can vary depending on the type of unit and how well it's maintained.
For example, high-quality units that are properly maintained can last up to 20 years. On the other hand, low-quality units that aren't well-maintained may only last 5-10 years.
If you want your air conditioner to last as long as possible, make sure you're using a high-quality unit and keeping up on its maintenance. This will help ensure that your unit lasts for many years to come.
Will an older A/C Unit work with a programmable thermostat?
In most cases, yes. However, it's always a good idea to check with the manufacturer to be sure.
In some cases, if your system is 10-20 years old, you may need to upgrade to a new unit to use a programmable thermostat.
If you're not sure, the best thing to do is check with the manufacturer or a professional. They'll be able to advise you on whether or not your system is compatible with a programmable thermostat.
While it may be a significant investment, getting a new A/C unit can save you a lot of money in the long run. It will be more energy-efficient, but it will also allow you to take advantage of newer features, such as programmable thermostats.
How much is a programmable thermostat?
Depending on the brand and features, programmable thermostats can range in price from $100-$200.
However, they can start saving you money within the first year of use. There are a few different ways they can save you money.
First, by programming your thermostat, you can ensure that your home is only heated or cooled when you need it to be. This can help reduce energy waste and lower your energy bills.
Second, programmable thermostats can help you take advantage of energy-saving features, such as fan settings and energy-saving modes. Using these features can further reduce your energy consumption and save even more money.
Lastly, additional features such as service reminders can help you keep your system well-maintained. This can help prevent costly repairs and extend the lifespan of your unit.
What could cause my thermostat to stop working?
If your thermostat isn't working, then there are a few different things that could be causing the problem.
One possibility is that the batteries are dead. Switch the batteries out and see if that solves the problem.
You should also check to see if you tripped a breaker. Reset the breaker and see if that solves the problem.
If neither of those solved your issue, remove the cover and ensure that all wires are still connected. If they are, the problem is likely with the thermostat itself, and you'll need to replace it.
If you're not comfortable doing this yourself, you can always call a professional. They'll be able to diagnose and solve the problem quickly and efficiently.
If your thermostat is older, the professional may recommend upgrading to a new unit.
Final Thoughts
Air conditioners are a great way to keep your home cool and comfortable during the summer months. However, they can be a significant source of energy waste if they're not used properly.
By following the tips above, you can help reduce your energy consumption and save money on your energy bills even while on summer vacation.
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