FREE REPORT BLOG (16)

HVAC Checklist Before Summer Vacation

Summer vacation is a time to relax, travel, and unwind. But before you grab your bags and hit the road, there’s one critical system in your home that deserves your attention: your HVAC. With Sacramento temperatures soaring during the summer, leaving your HVAC unchecked could mean returning to an uncomfortable home—or worse, costly repairs.

In this guide, we present a complete HVAC checklist before your summer getaway, designed by All Year Inc., HVAC experts in Sacramento, to help you protect your home, conserve energy, and extend the life of your system.

Why Prepare Your HVAC System Before Leaving?

  • Avoid Costly Breakdowns: Small issues can become major problems if ignored.
  • Save on Energy Bills: Adjusting your system properly while you’re away reduces waste.
  • Protect Indoor Air Quality: Mold, dust, or humidity issues can worsen in your absence.
  • Return to Comfort: No one wants to come back to a hot, stuffy home.

Your HVAC system doesn’t take a vacation—even when you do. That’s why this checklist is essential.

HVAC Summer Vacation Checklist

1. Schedule a Professional Tune-Up

Before heading out, the best way to ensure your system is running efficiently is to get a seasonal maintenance service.

A professional from All Year Inc. will:

  • Inspect and clean coils
  • Check refrigerant levels
  • Tighten electrical connections
  • Lubricate moving parts
  • Calibrate thermostat

2. Change or Clean Air Filters

Dirty filters restrict airflow, making your system work harder. That’s bad for both your utility bill and system longevity.

Before you go:

  • Replace disposable filters or
  • Clean washable ones thoroughly

If you have pets or allergies, consider upgrading to a HEPA or electrostatic filter.

Pro Tip: Set a reminder to change your filter right before each vacation!

3. Clean Around Your Outdoor Unit

Check the area around your outdoor condenser:

  • Clear away leaves, grass, and debris
  • Trim back plants at least 2 feet away
  • Make sure the unit is level

Blocked units cause overheating and poor airflow—two issues you want to avoid while away.

4. Adjust Your Thermostat

Your HVAC doesn’t need to keep an empty house cool. Setting your thermostat correctly can save you 10-30% on energy use.

Recommended settings:

  • Set to 85°F if no pets or sensitive items are inside
  • Use vacation mode if available
  • Consider setting it a few degrees cooler if you have plants or delicate items

Need help programming your thermostat? Ask All Year Inc. about installing a smart thermostat before your trip.

5. Seal Doors and Windows

Even the best HVAC systems can’t beat leaky seals. Ensure your home stays cool (and costs stay down):

  • Check weatherstripping
  • Use draft stoppers
  • Close blinds and curtains

This keeps your home shaded, reduces heat, and eases the load on your system.

6. Unplug Electronics & Appliances

Unplugging devices like TVs, toasters, and chargers reduces heat generation inside the home, decreasing the cooling burden.

Plus, it reduces the risk of electrical fires and saves energy.

 

Optional Enhancements for Extra Efficiency

Install a Smart Thermostat

Control your HVAC remotely. Forgot to adjust it after leaving? No worries. Smart thermostats let you monitor and manage your HVAC system from anywhere.

Top Features:

  • Remote access
  • Learning behaviors
  • Real-time alerts

All Year Inc. offers expert installation of top-rated smart thermostats. Contact us today for a free quote.

Whole-House Air Purifier

Improve air quality while you’re gone—especially if your home is closed up for long periods.

Benefits:

  • Reduces allergens, VOCs, bacteria
  • Keeps air clean and fresh

Ask about options compatible with your existing HVAC system.

What NOT to Do Before Vacation

Don’t Turn Off Your HVAC Completely

This can lead to:

  • Mold growth due to trapped humidity
  • Overworked system when you return
  • Unpleasant odors and stale air

Instead, set your thermostat to vacation mode or raise the temperature to reduce cycling.

Don’t Skip a Maintenance Call if You Hear Strange Noises

Unusual sounds before leaving? That could mean:

  • Failing motors
  • Worn belts
  • Loose parts

What seems minor could become a major repair while you’re away.

Book a diagnostic check with All Year Inc. before departure. Peace of mind is worth it.

Bonus Tips for Summer HVAC Efficiency

  • Use ceiling fans to circulate air.
  • Keep interior doors open for better airflow.
  • Avoid heat-generating appliances (ovens, dryers) before leaving.

Enjoy Your Vacation with Confidence

Your home is your sanctuary. Don’t let HVAC worries ruin your return from a beautiful trip. With this checklist and expert support from All Year Inc., Sacramento’s trusted HVAC professionals, you can enjoy peace of mind.

From tune-ups to smart tech upgrades, we’ve got your back. Let us help you:

  • Maximize energy savings
  • Protect your investment
  • Return to a cool, comfortable home

Ready to prep your HVAC system before your summer getaway? Book your appointment or claim your FREE HVAC performance report today with All Year Inc.—your Sacramento HVAC partner for over 50 years.