If you’re packing up for a vacation, one of the last things on your mind is probably your air conditioner. But as you lock the doors and set your alarms, you might find yourself wondering: Should I turn off the AC when I’m gone? The short answer is—probably not. Instead, there’s a smarter way to manage your cooling system that keeps your home safe, your energy bills low, and your AC unit in good shape.
Let’s break it down.
Why You Shouldn’t Turn Off the AC Completely
It might seem like turning off your air conditioner while you’re gone is a great way to save energy. After all, no one’s home to enjoy the cool air, right?
But turning your system off entirely can actually backfire. Here’s why:
1. Heat and Humidity Build-Up
If you live in a warm area like Georgia, the summertime heat and humidity can rise quickly—especially in a closed-up home. Without air circulation and dehumidification, your home can turn into a hot, sticky box. It’s not just uncomfortable when you return; it can also damage wood floors, furniture, electronics, and even drywall.
2. Mold and Mildew Risk
Air conditioners don’t just cool your home—they also remove excess moisture. When humidity levels climb above 60%, mold and mildew can start to grow, particularly in dark areas like closets, basements, and behind walls. Keeping your AC on at a moderate setting helps reduce this risk.
3. Strain on Your System
If you completely shut off your AC and your house heats up for days or weeks, your unit will have to work much harder to cool it back down when you return. That kind of rapid restart can put unnecessary strain on the system and may even shorten its lifespan.
What to Do Instead
Set It and Forget It
Rather than shutting your system down, the best solution is to raise the thermostat setting. Setting your thermostat to around 80–85°F while you’re away strikes a good balance. It saves energy by not overcooling your home, but it still runs often enough to control humidity and prevent heat-related damage.
If you have a programmable or smart thermostat, you can even schedule it to begin cooling your home a few hours before you arrive back from your trip.
Close Curtains and Blinds
Before you leave, close curtains and blinds to keep sunlight from heating up your space. This small step can help maintain a steadier indoor temperature and lighten the load on your AC unit while you’re away.
Traveling in Winter? Think About Heating Too
While this post focuses on cooling, similar principles apply to the heating season. If you’re traveling in the colder months, don’t shut your furnace off completely—especially if you live in an area that gets near-freezing or even freezing temps. Keeping the thermostat at 60–65°F can help prevent frozen pipes and other cold-weather problems.
Keep Your System Vacation-Ready
Before leaving town, it’s also smart to make sure your HVAC system is running smoothly. An AC maintenance check-up ensures there are no hidden issues that could cause trouble while you’re gone. Clean filters, properly sealed ductwork, and working thermostats all play a role in keeping your system efficient and worry-free.
Final Thoughts: Should You Turn Off the AC When on Vacation?
In most cases, no—you shouldn’t turn off your AC completely when going on vacation. A better strategy is to raise your thermostat setting to save energy without risking your home’s comfort, safety, or air quality.
Whether you’re gone for a weekend or a few weeks, preparing your HVAC system before you leave is just as important as remembering your sunscreen.
Schedule an AC Tune-Up Today
At 4 Seasons Heating & Air, we’ve been helping Georgia homeowners stay cool and comfortable for over 50 years. If you’re overdue for AC maintenance, give us a call! Our expert technicians can perform a full system check-up and offer smart thermostat recommendations to ensure your system is working at its best.
Call (770) 667-5300 or schedule online to book your next appointment.
