Should You Leave the AC Running While You're on Vacation?

When you're getting ready for a summer getaway, there’s one question that often comes up: Should I leave the air conditioner running while I’m gone? It may feel wasteful to cool a home you’re not even in—but returning to a sweltering house is no one’s idea of a warm welcome. At Jameson Heating & Air, we get this question a lot, so let’s break down the pros, cons, and best practices to keep your home protected and your energy bill in check while you’re away.

The Case for Leaving It On (Sort Of)

In most cases, the best answer isn’t to leave your AC running full blast, nor is it to turn it off completely. Instead, raising the thermostat setting while still letting the AC run periodically is usually the smartest approach.

Why? Completely turning off your AC in July can lead to extreme indoor temperatures. This doesn’t just make your home uncomfortable to return to—it can also:

• Put stress on your HVAC system when it has to work overtime to cool everything down again

• Damage electronics, wood furniture, and flooring due to high heat and humidity

• Encourage mold or mildew, especially in humid regions

Keeping your AC on—but at a higher temperature—helps protect your home while still conserving energy.

What's the Ideal Temperature?

For most homes, setting your thermostat to 80–85°F while you're away strikes the right balance. It’s warm enough to save on your energy bill, but not so hot that it damages your home or belongings.

If you have pets staying at home, adjust accordingly. For example, if a pet sitter is visiting or your animals stay inside, 76–78°F is typically more comfortable and still energy-efficient.

Smart Thermostats Make It Even Easier

If you're looking to optimize comfort and efficiency, a smart thermostat is your best friend. You can adjust the temperature remotely, get alerts if your home becomes too hot, and even set the system to start cooling a few hours before you return—so it feels just right when you walk through the door.

Some smart thermostats even have eco or vacation modes that automatically handle this for you.

Bonus Tip: Close the Curtains

Before you leave, close your blinds or curtains to block out direct sunlight. This small step can reduce indoor temperatures by several degrees, helping your AC work less while you’re away.

Final Thoughts

While it might seem like a money-saver to shut your air conditioner off entirely during your summer vacation, the better choice is to let it run occasionally at a higher setting. You’ll protect your home, reduce energy use, and come back to a house that doesn’t feel like an oven.