Planning a trip, whether for a weekend getaway or an extended vacation, is always exciting. However, amidst the anticipation of exploring new places or reuniting with loved ones, it’s essential not to overlook the importance of your home’s comfort and energy efficiency.
While you’re away, making the right adjustments to your thermostat can help you save money and ensure your home remains protected. At Top Notch Heating, Cooling & Plumbing, we understand the significance of this balance, and that’s why we’ve put together this quick guide on how to properly adjust your thermostat for travel, regardless of the season.
Types of Thermostats: Which One Do You Have?
Before we get too far, you first need to identify what type of thermostat you have.
Manual thermostats are the simplest model, featuring a basic dial or slider to set the temperature. They require manual adjustments and lack programmable features. If you have this type of HVAC system thermostat, you’ll need to manually set it before your trip.
A programmable thermostat offers greater flexibility. It enables you to create temperature schedules for different times of the day and week. Programmable thermostats provide more convenience, allowing you to pre-program energy-saving settings for when you’re away and return to a comfortable home upon your arrival.
Finally, smart thermostats represent the pinnacle of comfort and energy efficiency. They can be controlled remotely through a smartphone app and often incorporate advanced features such as learning your preferences and automatically adjusting your temperature setting. Additionally, smart thermostats provide real-time data on energy usage, empowering you to make informed decisions to save energy and money.
Adjust Your Thermostat During Your Travels
Adjusting your temperature setting for travel largely depends on the type you have. Here’s a breakdown of what thermostat setting to consider for each type:
- Manual Thermostat: For manual thermostats, set the temperature to a level that ensures your home won’t freeze in winter or overheat in summer but is closer to the outdoor temperature. This approach minimizes energy consumption while maintaining a safe indoor environment.
- Programmable Thermostat: Most programmable thermostats allow you to create energy-saving schedules. For winter trips, lower the temperature by 10-15 degrees Fahrenheit from your usual comfort setting when you’re away. In summer, increase the temperature by the same margin. Program the thermostat to return to your preferred temperature shortly before your expected return to ensure comfort upon arrival.
- Smart Thermostat: Smart thermostats offer the most flexibility. You can adjust settings remotely through a smartphone app or set up geofencing, allowing your thermostat to automatically adjust when it detects you’re away from home. Many smart thermostats also provide vacation modes or “away” settings, simplifying the process of optimizing your heating and cooling system for energy savings during your absence.
Seasonal Considerations for Your Thermostat
The optimal thermostat adjustments for travel can vary with the seasons. Here are the recommended thermostat settings for your furnace or heat pump based on the time of year:
Winter Travel
- Lower your thermostat temperature settings to around 50-55 degrees Fahrenheit to prevent freezing pipes and excess energy consumption.
- If you have a programmable or smart thermostat, set your thermostat to raise the heating temperature a few hours before your return to ensure a warm and comfortable home when you return.
- Ensure that doors and windows are properly sealed to prevent drafts and reduce the workload of your heating system.
Summer Travel
- Adjust your thermostat temperature to around 85-90 degrees Fahrenheit to save on cooling costs while preventing excessive humidity.
- If you have a programmable or smart thermostat, program it to lower the temperature before you expect to return.
- Use blinds or curtains to block direct sunlight, reducing the strain on your air conditioner.
Additional Thermostat Tips for Greater Energy Savings
Aside from adjusting your thermostat while traveling, here are some additional tips to maximize your heating and air conditioning system’s efficiency:
- Regular Maintenance: Schedule annual HVAC system maintenance to ensure it runs optimally. A well-maintained system consumes less energy and is less likely to break down.
- Sealing and Insulation: Properly seal and insulate your home to prevent air leaks and maintain a consistent indoor temperature.
- Upgrade to a Smart Thermostat: Consider upgrading to a smart thermostat if you haven’t already. The convenience and energy-saving features are well worth the investment. And who doesn’t want to save money?
- Utilize Fans: Ceiling fans can help distribute warm or cool air more efficiently, allowing you to maintain comfort at higher thermostat settings.
Call Top Notch for Top-Tier Thermostat Services in Kansas City and Beyond
By following these guidelines and learning how to adjust your thermostat accordingly, you can enjoy your travels with peace of mind, knowing that your home remains energy-efficient and comfortable.
Remember that energy savings not only benefit your wallet but also contribute to a more sustainable and eco-friendly lifestyle. So, whether you’re off to explore new horizons or visiting loved ones, make the most of your thermostat for a worry-free journey and a warm welcome back home.
If you’re in the Kansas City area or its surrounding communities and are looking for expert thermostat services, Top Notch Heating, Cooling & Plumbing is your trusted partner. We specialize in installing all types of thermostats, including smart thermostats, which we highly recommend for their unparalleled convenience and energy-saving capabilities. Our skilled technicians have been serving the community since 1974, making us the go-to choice for all your thermostat needs.
Whether you need thermostat installation, repair, or maintenance services, rest assured that our experienced HVAC technicians are here to assist you every step of the way. Contact us today to ensure your thermostat is set up to succeed, providing you with both comfort and savings that you can rely on.
