If you are going out of town, there are important home comfort tips to keep in mind to make sure that you have a comfortable home to return to — without breaking the bank. The knee-jerk reaction may be for you to simply turn off your air conditioner, furnace or water heater before leaving for an extended period of time.
While this may seem like the most logical move, it may not necessarily be the right decision. Simply put, you need the right HVAC advice to make informed choices. Here are some tips:
- If you leave your home during the hot summer months, you should turn your thermostat up. If you have a window air conditioner, consider removing it temporarily. Should removing it prove too difficult, cover the compressor and unplug the unit. Consider leaving a fan on to provide good air circulation if there are pets in your home.
- If you leave your home during the cold winter months, set your temperature at 55 degrees Fahrenheit or around 12 degrees Celsius. This is an excellent piece of advice to keep in mind because water may freeze and burst your pipes. If you plan to be away for longer periods, ask a trusted neighbor to check your home periodically to make sure that your furnace is running.
- If you have an electric heater, simply cut the power at the breaker. If you have a gas heater, you should have the option to set your dial for a “VAC” or “vacation” setting. Older units may not have this setting, so you may need to turn it down as low as it will go without turning it off. Be careful that you do not turn off the pilot light. If you accidentally turn it off, you may need to call a service professional.
Do not hesitate to contact us at Arpi’s if you have any questions or problems. Our qualified staff is always on hand to provide you with excellent HVAC advice.
Arpi’s services Calgary, Alberta. To get started, check out our website or see our special offers.
