When it comes to leaving for vacation, you have likely taken care of the more obvious tasks: you have arranged to have your newspaper picked up, you have unplugged all of the appliances and electronics and you’ve locked all the doors and windows. But there are a few other additional tasks that you should add to your list that are very important and yet can be easily overlooked (your air purification system is a prime example!)
- Protect Your Home from Theft
Just as you arranged for someone to come and pick up your newspapers while you’re away, it’s also important to arrange for snow removal if you’re travelling in the winter for the same reasons — so you don’t give the impression that you’re away. Also close your blinds and curtains. You might also want to consider installing timed lights outside and inside of your home for the same reasons. - Adjust the Temperature of Your Thermostat
You don’t want to turn off your furnace if you’re travelling in the winter. Above all, you want to ensure that you don’t lower it too much so that your pipes freeze. You can also wrap your pipes for additional protection if you’re concerned that your pipes could freeze. - Install a Surge Protector for Your HVAC
Power can be inconsistent in the winter months, so installing a surge protector for your HVAC can prevent any damage. Alternatively, if you already have a surge protector, ensure that it’s in good condition. - Change Your Air Filter
If you’re travelling during the winter months, you will be leaving your furnace running to protect your home from the cold weather. As such, it’s important to change the air filter on your air purification system (i.e., your HVAC) prior to leaving for vacation. This will not only ensure that you turn air to good quality air in your home, but also that you don’t come home to a malfunctioning HVAC system in the middle of the winter! Changing your filters will prevent this disaster ahead of time, along with costly HVAC repairs. Keep in mind that it is typically recommended that homeowners change their HVAC filters roughly every 1 to 3 months.
APC Filtration has been working in air filter design, engineering, manufacturing and testing for industrial, commercial and household equipment for over 35 years. We are a certified manufacturer. We develop air filters, including those for air purification systems, in order to protect households. Contact us for more information.
