What’s the Best Thermostat Setting for Vacation?

Adjusting Your Thermostat Can Save You Money and Protect Your Home

Are you counting down the days until your next vacation? Going on vacation is a great way to unwind, but preparing for it can be stressful. From cleaning and packing to caring for pets, there’s a lot to manage.

You also need to decide what to set your thermostat to while on vacation when your house is empty. HVAC.com explores the best thermostat settings for vacation to help keep your energy bills under control and your home well protected.

What Should I Set My Thermostat to While on Vacation in the Winter?

The ideal thermostat setting for vacation depends on the time of year. If you’re traveling in the fall or winter, when temperatures are colder, consider adjusting your thermostat to a lower setting – typically about 5 to 10 degrees below your normal temperature.

For example, if you usually keep your thermostat between 68-70 degrees during the winter, consider setting it to around 60 degrees while you’re away from home. Don’t lower it much below 55 degrees, though, as this can increase the risk of frozen pipes.

Pipes in bathrooms and kitchens are usually poorly insulated and need some heat to prevent them from freezing. If you’ve experienced frozen pipes in the past, leave cabinet doors open to allow warm air to circulate.

What Should I Leave My Thermostat on While on Vacation in the Summer?

Raise the temperature about 8 to 12 degrees if you’re going on an extended vacation in late spring or summer. Most homeowners keep their homes between 72-76 degrees during warmer weather. Setting your thermostat to around 80-85°F strikes a nice balance between saving energy and keeping your home safe while you’re away.

Setting your thermostat too high can cause humidity levels to rise. Your AC doesn’t just cool the air – it also helps control moisture, keeping your home from feeling damp and muggy.

Should You Turn Your Thermostat Off While on Vacation?

Turning off your HVAC system while you’re on vacation might seem like a way to save energy, but it can actually do more harm than good, especially in warmer climates. Without climate control, your home can experience extreme temperatures and high humidity – often over 50% in the summer – which can lead to mold growth, warped wood floors and furniture, damaged insulation and drywall, and even plumbing issues.

Excess moisture can also cause musty odors and attract dust mites and other allergens. Keeping your thermostat set to a moderate temperature helps protect your home and keeps the air fresh while you're away.

Thermostat Settings for Pets While on Vacation

Don’t forget about your furry friends! If you have pets at home during your vacation, make sure to set your thermostat to a comfortable level for them. Generally, keeping the temperature between 75-80 degrees during the warmer months is advisable, as this range helps prevent overheating, especially for dogs and cats.

In winter, you should keep the thermostat set between 60-65 degrees for your pets’ comfort and safety. Avoid lowering it too much, as cold temperatures can be harmful, especially for smaller or elderly animals.

Smart Thermostats: A Convenient Option for Travelers

Using a smart thermostat can be a real game-changer, especially if you travel frequently. Smart thermostats allow you to adjust your home’s temperature remotely via a smartphone app, ensuring that you maintain energy efficiency without compromising home safety. You can also program schedules to automatically adjust the temperature before you return, so your home is comfortable when you arrive.

Additionally, many smart thermostats provide energy usage reports and learning capabilities that adapt to your schedule over time. Some models can even detect when you’re away and make automatic adjustments to maximize efficiency. With features like voice control integration and compatibility with other smart home devices, a smart thermostat offers both convenience and cost savings for frequent travelers.