After setting your itinerary and packing your bags, every homeowner knows there are a few extra steps before you can leave for vacation. As you take the trash out, unplug appliances, and set your alarm system, don’t forget to change the settings on your thermostat. Many New Englanders like to travel during the winter months when it is cold and grey (to learn more about improving your HVAC efficiency during the winter, read here). If you have a programmable thermostat, you will not only want to adjust the temperature but also turn off any of the automatic settings you have programmed. Many homeowners now opt for smart thermostats that are adjustable from anywhere with Wifi. This smart thermostat feature is extremely helpful if you are running out the door, and adjusting your thermostat slips your mind! But what is the right temperature for a home unoccupied in winter?

Setting your thermostat to no lower than 55 degrees can help prevent pipes from freezing.

When you are away from home, it might seem logical to keep the temperature as low as possible to avoid paying for energy from which you are not directly benefiting. However, there are other factors to consider. If your pipes freeze or burst, the flooding that results from this creates a costly mess to clean up. According to Angie’s list, “Repairing a burst pipe costs an average of $500 for professional repairs.” Keeping the temperature of a house warm enough is vital when you are on vacation, have a vacation home, or own a summer rental property.

According to the Red Cross, setting the thermostat no lower than 55 degrees Fahrenheit is a suitable temperature to prevent your pipes from freezing. There are a few caveats, however. Be sure to turn off your water, and make sure the pipes are empty by letting the water run into a sink until absolutely no water comes out of the spigot. It is also important to look for any drafts you may have in your home. Winterizing your home before you leave (and in general) will help ensure that certain areas of your home aren’t colder than the rest. Seal your windows and doors and look for holes that need to be secured. Additionally, if you are due for a filter change or will be gone for a significant amount of time, change your air filter to ensure that your system is effectively heating the space. A dirty filter will slow down your system, create uneven airflow, and potentially cause a breakdown. A maintenance plan can remove this factor from the equation.

Coming home to a comfortable home is important and can be controlled using a smart thermostat.

We know that returning to a home ready to be occupied again and without any issues is important to you, so if you need more guidance, never hesitate to contact a professional.

 

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If your question still needs answering or you’d like to schedule a consultation, contact the friendly team at Genove Oil & Air, and we’ll help you find the right solution for your home or business.

 

Whether you need home heating oil or Bioheat delivery, or installation and service of oil & natural gas systems for HVAC, heating, and cooling—call us at 781-893-9191 or email us.