July 2, 2026

Important HVAC & Plumbing Tips Before You Leave for Vacation

There’s a lot of planning that goes into a vacation, but when you’re there, the goal is relax and remain worry free. However, staying worry free is easier when you get done some important HVAC and plumbing tasks before leaving for your trip.

At Tindall & Ranson, we’re here to provide some helpful tips to help you prevent issues with your heating and cooling and plumbing while you’re away on vacation.

Set Your Thermostat

While you’ll be away and won’t need the full blast of cool air, it’s important to set your thermostat in a way that keeps your home at a relatively cool temperature (between 74 and 76 degrees) for when you arrive without spiking your energy bill. Turning your air off completely is ill-advised. While you save money on the lower energy expenses, it could lead to a rise in humidity, which can ruin electronics and compromise wood floors.

Consider Replacing Your Filters

Clogged filters can cause your system to work harder. If you replace your filters before leaving for your trip, it allows your system to operate more efficiently, which has a positive effect on the health of your system and your energy bill.

Clean Around Your Unit

For outside units, debris, leaves, and dust can greatly restrict airflow, which can lead to underperformance and stain on the unit. Before leaving, conduct a check of the unit and remove any branches or leaves that you see that are obstructing the airflow.

Check for Leaks

A few days before setting off, you may want to look under sinks and around the toilets in your home. If you spot water, it could indicate a leak, which could worsen if it remained undetected while you were away.

Consider Shutting Off Your Water

If you plan on an extended vacation, by a week or more, it may be a smart idea to shut off your water. This can eliminate any risks of leaks or water damage while you’re out of the house for a period of time.

Test the Sump Pump

It’s important to make sure that your sump pump is working properly before leaving. It will give you the relief in the event that a turbulent storm passes through while you’re away from home.

Clean Out Your Garbage Disposal

While it’s not a crucial task, it’s one that you’ll appreciate doing when you get home. If food and debris is left in your garbage disposal for an extended period of time with no water activity, it could start to smell.

Schedule a Check Up Before Leaving

Having a professional take a look at your home’s comfort systems can help you stay ahead of any issues, especially when you’re on vacation. Whether there’s minor maintenance needed, or emergency repairs, it can get taken care off and add a little less worry while you’re trying to relax.

Let Tindall & Ranson Help

If you’re setting out on a vacation and want to make sure that there’s going to be no HVAC issues or plumbing problems while you’re away, the team at Tindall & Ranson can inspect your home’s systems to make sure that they’re in good condition and will be okay for a bit while you’re away.

Contact us to help you prep your home for when you’re away!