Going on vacation is always an exciting experience; it’s a time to relax, unwind, and rejuvenate. However, when planning a vacation, it’s crucial to make arrangements for your house.
One of the most important things you need to consider is the temperature you should leave your house at while on vacation. Here are some factors to keep in mind when deciding on the ideal temperature:
Why Does Temperature Matter?
Maintaining the right temperature in your home while you’re away is essential for several reasons. First and foremost, it helps prevent damage to your home’s interior due to extreme temperatures.
In colder climates, pipes can freeze and burst if the heat is turned off completely. On the other hand, in warmer areas, high humidity levels can cause mold growth or damage wooden structures.
What Should Be The Ideal Temperature?
The ideal temperature for your home while you’re away will depend on several factors such as location, climate patterns, and energy efficiency of your home appliances. However, generally speaking, it’s recommended that you set your thermostat between 50-55°F (10-13°C) during winter vacations and between 85-90°F (29-32°C) during summer vacations.
Winter Vacation
If you’re going away during winter months and live in a cold climate area with temperatures below freezing point outside, set your thermostat at around 50°F (10°C) minimum. This will ensure that there’s enough heat to prevent pipes from freezing but still save energy costs.
Summer Vacation
If you’re going away during summer months and live in a hot climate area with temperatures above 90°F (32°C), set your thermostat at around 85°F (29°C) maximum. This will help prevent mold growth or damage to wooden structures caused by high humidity levels.
Energy Efficiency
When setting the temperature for your home while you’re away, consider energy efficiency. Lowering the temperature in winter can reduce your energy bills and save money. Similarly, raising the temperature in summer can also save energy costs.
Additional Tips
Apart from setting the right temperature, here are some additional tips to keep your home safe while on vacation:
- Ask a trusted friend or neighbor to check on your house periodically.
- Unplug any unnecessary electronics such as TV, computer, or other appliances to save energy.
- Make sure all doors and windows are locked securely.
- Turn off the main water supply to prevent any potential leaks or damage.
- Clean out the fridge and freezer and dispose of any perishable food items before leaving.
In Conclusion
Leaving your house for a vacation is always exciting, but don’t forget to take care of it while you’re away. Setting the right temperature is essential to preventing damage caused by extreme temperatures.
It’s recommended that you set your thermostat between 50-55°F (10-13°C) during winter vacations and between 85-90°F (29-32°C) during summer vacations. Additionally, taking some extra precautions such as unplugging electronics and securing doors and windows can give you peace of mind while you’re away.