Is it Okay to Leave the Heat On While Traveling for the Holidays?

The holiday season is a time of joy, family gatherings, and often travel. If you’re planning to leave your home for an extended period, you may be wondering, “Should I leave the heat on while I’m away?” While it might seem tempting to turn off your heating system completely to save money, doing so can lead to costly problems. Here’s why keeping your heat on—albeit at a lower setting—is the best course of action.

Prevent Frozen Pipes

One of the biggest risks of turning off your heat entirely during the winter is frozen pipes. When the temperature inside your home drops too low, water in your pipes can freeze and expand, potentially causing them to burst. Repairing water damage from a burst pipe can cost thousands of dollars—not to mention the hassle of cleanup and restoration.

To avoid this, it’s crucial to keep your home’s temperature above freezing. Most experts recommend setting your thermostat to at least 55°F while you’re away. This temperature is sufficient to prevent freezing without running up your heating bill.

Protect Your Home’s Structure

Your home’s structural components, such as walls, floors, and windows, are designed to withstand a range of temperatures. However, extreme cold can lead to damage, such as warped wood or cracked drywall. Keeping your heat on at a low level helps maintain a stable environment, preserving the integrity of your home.

Energy-Efficient Heating Tips While You’re Away

While you should leave the heat on, you don’t need to heat your home as if you were there. Follow these tips to optimize your energy use while traveling:

Use a Programmable ThermostatSet your thermostat to maintain a lower, energy-efficient temperature during your absence. Many smart thermostats even allow you to adjust settings remotely, giving you peace of mind.

Seal Drafts and InsulateBefore you leave, check for drafts around windows and doors. Proper insulation and weatherstripping can prevent heat loss, reducing the load on your HVAC system.

Close Interior DoorsClosing the doors to rooms you don’t need heated can help concentrate warmth in essential areas, minimizing energy use.

Additional Safety Considerations

Before heading out, take a few extra precautions to ensure your heating system operates safely while you’re away:

Schedule a Maintenance CheckA quick tune-up ensures your HVAC system is in top shape and reduces the risk of breakdowns during your absence.

Test Your Smoke and Carbon Monoxide DetectorsMake sure these devices are functioning properly to protect your home from unforeseen issues.

Set Ceiling Fans to Winter ModeIf you have ceiling fans, set them to rotate clockwise at a low speed to help circulate warm air efficiently.

Conclusion

Leaving your heat on while traveling for the holidays is essential to protecting your home from costly damage caused by frozen pipes and extreme cold. By setting your thermostat to a lower but safe temperature and taking a few energy-efficient steps, you can enjoy your holiday travels worry-free.

If you’d like to ensure your HVAC system is ready for the winter season, contact Jameson Heating & Air today for a professional maintenance check. We’re here to keep your home safe and comfortable all year round!