Monroe Heating & Air

How Can Homeowners Prepare Their AC System For Summer Vacation?

Are you eagerly making plans for the summer? I sure am! A study was published in July 2021 that shows 98% of Americans have “traveling” listed on this summer’s schedule. After the isolation of quarantining off and on for the past two years, we could all use a change in our environment! Whatever destination you choose to explore this summer, it is always beneficial to make a list to avoid any hiccups in your vacation plans. Monroe Heating & Air has a few suggestions to incorporate within your list to support a well-maintained HVAC system and your home while you’re away!

What Is the Importance of Utilizing Surge Protectors?

Ohio’s thunderstorms, whether you love them or hate them, are prominent in the summer and, ought to be considered when vacation planning. You may think, “I’m going to be relaxing on the beach, so I’m not worried about thunderstorms.” However, with thunderstorms, we get lightning, and with lightning, your HVAC system can be put in harm’s way while you are on vacation. Surge protectors evade possible damage by shifting the direction of high voltage surges away from your HVAC system and into the ground, defending it against lightning! Furthermore, power surges are also common in the summer due to higher energy demands from your household cooling appliances, pushing your home’s electrical system to its limits.

Should I Change My Air Filter Before Summer Vacation?

When traveling this summer, there is always a chance of exposure to indoor and outdoor allergens that can kick your sinuses into high gear. Ensuring your home retains a clean air filter can help prevent the continuation of allergy symptoms upon your return. Honestly, I don’t know anyone excited to unpack and immediately get back to household responsibilities upon first returning from a trip. Getting self-motivated to get back into the swing of things will prove challenging if allergies symptoms drag on. Furthermore, the humid summer heat means your AC will be needed more often, causing a higher volume of air to circulate throughout your system. Due to this higher volume, more airborne impurities will get trapped within your filter. So, it is in your best interest to swap out your filter more often. As a general rule of thumb, our HVAC specialists at Monroe Heating & Air, suggest swapping out your air filter every 30 to 60 days. Keep in mind retaining a clean filter will help guarantee sufficient air filtration and circulation, so you can come home to a working HVAC system and better indoor air quality upon your return.

Why Should You Raise Your Thermostat Temperature While On Summer Vacation?

You’re not the only one who needs a vacation. What better time to give your AC a break than while you are away? Usually, homeowners turn up their thermostat by four degrees from where they typically have it set. By doing so, you will optimize your savings without burning out your system when your return. However, if you alter the temperature too much, your system will work harder to re-cool your home, throwing away those savings with a more damaging electric bill; thus, we recommend utilizing programmable thermostats! Programmable thermostats allow you to regulate your system while you’re away, warn you and your service provider if something is wrong, and give you peace of mind.

Summer vacations are great for your mental and physical health. If you need another excuse to take a break, studies continuously prove that those who take vacations have less stress, find greater motivation, and develop a more positive outlook on life. Our Monroe Heating & Air professionals want you to take pleasure in your much-needed travels without any extra stress on you, your pockets, or your HVAC system! Call us today at (513) 540-4890, or schedule an appointment online now by clicking here!