How to Set Thermostat When on Vacation
Planning a vacation should feel relaxing—not stressful. However, many homeowners ask how to set thermostat settings before leaving to protect their home, reduce energy bills, and maintain healthy indoor air quality.
The right approach helps regulate indoor humidity levels, prevent damage caused by indoor air pollutants, and ensure your air conditioning system or heating system continues to protect your home while you are away.
This guide explains how to set your thermostat for both winter and summer travel, including recommendations for homes with pets, and how to improve indoor air quality while you are away.
For thermostat upgrades or system support
Best Thermostat Settings for Winter Vacations
During colder months, proper thermostat settings protect your home and support your heating systems.
A recommended range is 50°F to 55°F when your home is empty.
This setting helps:
- Prevent frozen pipes
- Maintain safe indoor humidity levels
- Reduce heating-related energy bills
- Protect your HVAC system from strain
Lowering your thermostat while away is one of the simplest ways to achieve energy savings without compromising your home's condition.
Winter Settings for Homes with Pets
If you have pets staying at home, adjust your thermostat accordingly.
For homes with pets, set your thermostat to at least 60°F to maintain a safe and comfortable indoor environment.
Pets are sensitive to temperature changes, especially:
- Older animals
- Small breeds
- Pets with health conditions
Maintaining stable temperatures helps keep your living space safe and comfortable.
Best Thermostat Settings for Summer Vacations
In warmer months, your air conditioning system plays a critical role in controlling both temperature and humidity.
Set your thermostat between 85°F and 90°F while away.
This allows your cooling system to:
- Control indoor humidity levels
- Prevent buildup of indoor air pollutants
- Protect furniture, flooring, and building materials
- Maintain basic air circulation
Avoid turning off your system completely. Without cooling cycles, humidity increases and can damage your indoor and outdoor environment.
Summer Settings for Homes with Pets
If pets remain indoors:
- Set your thermostat between 80°F and 82°F
- Ensure access to fresh water
- Use blinds or curtains to reduce heat
- Support airflow with a ceiling fan
These adjustments help keep your home comfortable while allowing your system to cool the air efficiently.
Should You Turn Off Your HVAC System While on Vacation?
Turning off your HVAC system may seem like a way to save energy, but it often creates more problems.
Instead of turning off your system, adjust your thermostat to maintain stable conditions.
Turning your system off can:
- Increase indoor humidity levels
- Allow volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and pollutants to build up
- Reduce air circulation
- Increase the risk of mold and mildew
- Damage your home's structure and finishes
Your heating and cooling system is designed to regulate both temperature and air quality. Keeping it running at adjusted settings helps maintain a healthy indoor environment.
How to Improve Indoor Air Quality While Traveling
Maintaining indoor air quality equipment and proper system settings is essential while you are away.
To improve indoor air quality, consider:
- Replacing your air filters before leaving
- Scheduling a system inspection
- Using air purifiers for additional protection
- Ensuring proper ventilation
These steps help reduce exposure to indoor air pollutants and maintain a healthier indoor space while your home is unoccupied.
Explore IAQ and HVAC solutions
Thermostat Upgrades for Better Control While Traveling
Upgrading to a smart thermostat makes it easier to manage your home remotely.
A smart thermostat allows you to:
- Adjust temperature settings from anywhere
- Monitor indoor humidity levels
- Improve system efficiency
- Maintain optimal thermostat settings
- Reduce energy waste
This is one of the most effective ways to manage your conditioning systems while traveling and ensure your home stays protected.
Why Homeowners Trust Estes Services
For more than 77 years, Estes Services has helped homeowners maintain safe, efficient, and comfortable homes.
As a trusted provider of HVAC and indoor air quality IAQ solutions, our team supports:
- Thermostat installation and upgrades
- HVAC system inspections
- Air conditioning system maintenance
- Indoor air quality equipment recommendations
We focus on long-term performance, helping you protect your home, reduce energy costs, and maintain a healthy indoor environment.
Schedule HVAC service 📞 (404) 362-6960
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FAQS
What is the best thermostat setting when on vacation in winter?
Set your thermostat between 50°F and 55°F to protect your home and reduce energy use. Homes with pets should stay at 60°F or higher.
What are the best thermostat settings for summer vacation?
Set your thermostat between 85°F and 90°F to balance energy savings and humidity control while protecting your home.
Should I turn off my HVAC system while on vacation?
No. Keeping your HVAC system running at adjusted settings helps control humidity, maintain air quality, and protect your home.
How can I improve indoor air quality while away?
You can improve indoor air quality by replacing filters, maintaining airflow, and using indoor air quality equipment like air purifiers.
Is a smart thermostat worth it for travel?
Yes. A smart thermostat allows you to monitor and adjust your home remotely, improving efficiency and protecting your system.
How do indoor humidity levels affect my home while away?
High indoor humidity levels can lead to mold growth, damage materials, and increase indoor air pollutants. Proper thermostat settings help prevent this.
What should I do before leaving my home for vacation?
Before leaving:
- Adjust thermostat settings
- Replace air filter
- Check HVAC system performance
- Ensure proper air circulation
