How to Prep Your HVAC System for Vacation Season

Smart Tips from RJW Air Conditioning to Keep Your Home Efficient While You’re Away

Summer means vacation time—and whether you're heading to the lake for a long weekend or jetting off on a much-needed getaway, there's one thing you shouldn't overlook before packing your bags: your home's HVAC system.

A few quick steps before you leave can help save you money, keep your system running efficiently, and ensure you return to a cool, comfortable home. At RJW Air Conditioning, we’ve been helping Fayetteville homeowners get the most out of their systems with transparent service and pricing you can trust. Here’s what we recommend:

1. Raise the Thermostat, But Don’t Turn It Off

One of the easiest ways to cut down on energy use while you’re away is to adjust your thermostat. In the summer, we suggest setting it between 80–85°F. This helps reduce energy usage without letting your home become so hot that it strains your AC system when you return.

👉 Pro Tip: If you have pets staying at home or sensitive items like electronics, make sure your settings are still safe for them.

2. Install or Program a Smart Thermostat

If you haven’t already upgraded to a smart thermostat, now’s the time. These devices let you control your home’s temperature remotely from your phone. Heading home a day early? Drop the temp before you walk through the door.

Many smart thermostats also provide energy usage reports and learning features to help you save money year-round.

3. Check Your Air Filter

Your HVAC system breathes through the air filter—if it’s clogged, your system will have to work harder (even while you're gone). Replacing the filter before vacation helps your AC run more efficiently and improves indoor air quality.

At RJW, we recommend checking filters monthly and changing them every 1–3 months depending on your home and lifestyle.

4. Seal Up Your Home

Before heading out the door, double-check that windows, doors, and blinds are closed and sealed. This helps your HVAC system maintain temperature more easily and reduces heat gain from the Arkansas summer sun.

💡 Bonus tip: Closing blinds or curtains also protects your furniture and floors from fading while you’re away.

5. Schedule a Quick System Check-Up

If you haven’t had your seasonal tune-up yet, vacation season is a great time to do it. A professional inspection can catch small problems before they turn into breakdowns—especially while you're away.

At RJW Air Conditioning, our tune-ups include:

• Checking refrigerant levels

• Cleaning coils

• Testing thermostat calibration

• Inspecting electrical components

• Evaluating overall system performance

Peace of mind is part of the package.

Go Relax—We’ve Got the Rest Covered

Vacations are meant to be stress-free—and that should include your HVAC system, too. If you're heading out this summer, take a few minutes to prep your AC before you go. And if you're due for a tune-up or considering a smart thermostat upgrade, RJW Air Conditioning is here to help.

📞 Call us today at (479) 443-9331 or schedule your service online for Transparent Service and Transparent Pricing, every time.