What Temperature Should I Set My Thermostat to When on Vacation?

Vacations are meant for relaxing, recharging, and maybe even forgetting what day it is. But before you toss that last pair of flip-flops into your suitcase, there’s one important thing you shouldn’t forget—your thermostat. Setting the right temperature while you’re away can save you money, keep your home in good shape, and give you peace of mind while you’re sipping something tropical.

At Weathermakers Air Conditioning & Heating, Inc., we know how hot and humid things get here in Largo, FL—and we also know the risks of letting your HVAC system work too hard (or not at all) while you’re out of town. So, let’s walk through the best thermostat practices for your next getaway.

Why Your Thermostat Setting Matters While You’re Away

You might think turning off your HVAC system altogether while you’re on vacation is the ultimate money-saver, but that’s actually not the case. Your HVAC system does more than just keep the air cool or warm—it helps regulate humidity, protect pipes, and maintain overall indoor comfort that your home needs even when you’re not there.

If you set your thermostat wisely, you’ll:

• Avoid extreme indoor temperatures that can damage belongings
• Prevent high humidity, which can cause mold and mildew
• Keep your energy bills lower without sacrificing safety
• Return to a home that isn’t sweltering or freezing

Bottom line? The right temperature setting is like a babysitter for your house—it keeps everything under control while you’re away.

Ideal Thermostat Settings for Summer Vacations

Here in Largo, summer in Largo doesn’t just knock—it bursts in with intense heat and humidity—it busts it open with a wall of heat and humidity. If you’re heading out for a summer trip, you’ll want to set your thermostat to around 80–85°F. That’s typically 8 to 12 degrees warmer than your usual comfort setting.

This range is the sweet spot: warm enough to reduce your energy bill, but cool enough to prevent your home from turning into a sauna. Your air conditioner will still cycle occasionally, which is great news because it means it’s still doing its job dehumidifying the air.

And remember—if you have houseplants, electronics, or wooden furniture, they’ll appreciate you not turning the place into an oven.

Ideal Thermostat Settings for Winter Vacations

Now, we don’t get brutal winters here in Largo, but if you’re heading somewhere chilly for the holidays, your empty home still needs some heat. During colder months, we recommend setting your thermostat to around 60°F while you’re away.

This keeps your pipes from freezing (especially if a cold snap rolls through) and ensures your home doesn’t become too cold or damp. It also helps maintain steady indoor air quality—yes, even in winter.

If your home has a history of frozen pipes or drafty spots, it’s a good idea to have one of our pros come out and inspect the system before you leave. Prevention is a whole lot easier (and cheaper) than fixing a burst pipe.

Thermostat Recommendations if Pets Stay at Home

Got furry friends hanging back while you’re away? Don’t forget that pets are more sensitive to temperature changes than we are. Whether a sitter is stopping by or your pets are staying solo for short stints, they’ll need a comfortable space too.

• For dogs and cats in summer: Set the thermostat to 75–78°F
• In the winter: Keep it around 60–65°F

These ranges are safe and comfy, especially for older pets or those with medical needs. If you’re unsure what’s best for your pet, ask your vet before setting the thermostat. And if you’d like the system to run more efficiently while still staying pet-friendly, we’re happy to help with a pre-trip check-up.

Why You Should Never Turn Off Your HVAC System

We get it—turning off your HVAC system might seem like a great way to save cash while you’re out of town. But trust us—it’s not worth the risk.

Here’s what can happen when your HVAC system is completely shut down:

• 🦠 Mold and mildew from uncontrolled humidity
• 🌡️ Extreme indoor temps that can damage electronics or paint
• 🚰 Frozen pipes (yes, even in Florida if the temps dip suddenly)
• 🪵 Warped wood floors or furniture
• 🐜 Uninvited pests and allergens thriving in moist, stagnant air

Instead of shutting it off, let your HVAC system run just enough to circulate air, control moisture, and protect your home’s infrastructure.

How Humidity Control Protects Your Home

Humidity in Florida is no joke, and your AC is your first line of defense against it. When your HVAC system runs, even at higher settings, it continues to pull moisture out of the air.

Letting humidity build up while you’re gone can lead to:

• Musty odors
• Mold growth
• Peeling paint
• Swollen doors and woodwork

By keeping your home at a steady temp (around 80–85°F in summer), you’re also keeping humidity in check. And guess what? Your AC won’t need to work too hard to do it.

The Value of Smart Thermostats for Travelers

Heading out for a longer vacation or traveling often for work? A smart thermostat can be your best friend.

With a Wi-Fi-connected thermostat, you can:

• Adjust your home’s temp remotely from your phone
• Schedule your AC or heat to kick in before you return
• Monitor indoor temps and receive alerts for humidity spikes or HVAC issues
• Even track energy usage while you’re gone

Smart thermostats are easy to use and incredibly efficient, especially in Florida’s unpredictable climate. If you’re not sure which one to choose or how to set it up, our team at Weathermakers is happy to help get one installed and programmed.

Why Pre-Vacation HVAC Maintenance is Critical

One of the most overlooked vacation prep steps? Giving your HVAC system a little TLC before you leave. The last thing you want is to come home to a broken AC unit or find out it shut down while you were gone.

Before your next trip, consider scheduling a quick HVAC check-up with us. It’s an easy way to:

• Make sure your system runs efficiently
• Catch potential issues before they become expensive
• Check thermostat settings and battery backups
• Ensure clean filters and clear condensate drains

One visit from a pro can save you from a mountain of headaches later.

Call a Professional for Vacation HVAC Prep

Still unsure about what to set your thermostat to before your vacation? Or just want the peace of mind that everything’s working like it should?

Our team at Weathermakers Air Conditioning & Heating, Inc. in Largo, FL has helped countless homeowners prep their systems before extended trips. We’ll make sure your HVAC unit is tuned up, your thermostat is programmed properly, and your home is protected while you’re away.

Final Tips for a Worry-Free Vacation

Here’s a quick checklist before you lock the door and head to the airport:

• ✅ Set thermostat to 80–85°F in summer, 60°F in winter
• ✅ Keep pets in mind—set a comfortable range for them
• ✅ Don’t turn the system off—keep it running moderately
• ✅ Close blinds and curtains to block sun and heat
• ✅ Schedule HVAC maintenance ahead of time
• ✅ Use a smart thermostat for remote adjustments
• ✅ Unplug unnecessary electronics to save extra energy

Wrapping Up with Our Expert Take: Keep Your Home Safe, Efficient, and Comfortable

Vacations are for unplugging—not stressing about your AC. With a smart thermostat setting and a quick HVAC check before you go, you’ll return to a comfortable, damage-free home every time.

Whether you’re going away for a weekend or a month, a little preparation goes a long way—especially in our Largo heat and humidity.

Before your next trip, give us a call at Weathermakers Air Conditioning & Heating, Inc. We’ll help make sure your system is good to go, so you can focus on enjoying your vacation.