Leaving Your Mountain Home This Summer? Don't Forget Your HVAC System
The High Country is a popular destination throughout the summer, and many homeowners in the Boone area split their time between multiple residences. Whether you're heading back to your primary home, taking an extended vacation, or simply spending less time at your mountain property, it's important to make sure your HVAC system is prepared before you leave. Many homeowners assume they should simply turn their air conditioner off when the home is unoccupied. However, doing so can sometimes create more problems than it prevents. Here are a few HVAC tips to help protect your home while you're away this summer.
Why You Shouldn't Turn Your Air Conditioner Completely Off
While Boone's temperatures are often milder than many parts of North Carolina, homes can still experience excessive heat and moisture buildup when left unattended. Without any cooling or air circulation, indoor temperatures can rise significantly, which may affect:
- Wood flooring and furniture
- Electronics
- Artwork and photographs
- Musical instruments
- Stored belongings
Additionally, warmer indoor conditions can place unnecessary stress on your HVAC system when it's eventually restarted.
Set Your Thermostat for Energy Savings
Rather than turning the system off completely, consider setting your thermostat several degrees higher than your normal comfort setting.
For many summer homeowners, a setting between 78 and 82 degrees provides a good balance between energy savings and home protection. A programmable or smart thermostat can make managing temperatures even easier while you're away.
Replace Your Air Filter Before You Leave
A clean air filter helps your system operate more efficiently and reduces unnecessary strain during extended periods of operation.
Replacing the filter before an extended absence can help ensure proper airflow and improve overall system performance.
Clear the Area Around Your Outdoor Unit
Before leaving, take a few minutes to inspect your outdoor condenser. Remove:
- Leaves
- Grass clippings
- Overgrown vegetation
- Small branches
Proper airflow allows your system to operate more efficiently and reduces the risk of service issues while you're away.
Consider a Smart Thermostat
Modern smart thermostats allow homeowners to monitor and adjust temperatures remotely from a smartphone or tablet. Benefits include:
- Remote temperature adjustments
- Energy usage monitoring
- System alerts
- Peace of mind while traveling
For second-home owners, this technology can be especially valuable.
Schedule Maintenance Before Your Trip
The last thing any homeowner wants is to discover a cooling problem after returning from several weeks away. A professional HVAC inspection can identify potential concerns before they become costly repairs. Maintenance appointments typically include:
- Checking refrigerant levels
- Inspecting electrical components
- Testing system performance
- Cleaning critical components
- Verifying proper airflow
Addressing small issues early can help avoid unexpected breakdowns later in the season.
Protect Your Investment While You're Away
Your HVAC system plays an important role in protecting your home—even when you're not there. A few simple preparations before leaving can help improve efficiency, prevent avoidable problems, and provide peace of mind throughout the summer. Whether you own a full-time residence, vacation home, or seasonal mountain retreat, Edmisten Heating & Cooling is here to help keep your system operating reliably. Contact Edmisten Heating & Cooling today to schedule service and make sure your home stays comfortable and protected while you're away. Check out our air conditioning service page to learn more about how we can keep your Boone, NC home cool and comfortable all summer long.




