Heading out of town for a few days—or even a couple of weeks—during a Texas summer comes with one big question:

What should you set your thermostat to while you’re gone?

You want to avoid wasting energy, but completely turning off your air conditioning in North Texas heat can lead to bigger (and more expensive) problems. The key is finding a balance that protects your home while keeping utility costs under control.

Why You Shouldn’t Turn Your AC Off Completely

It might seem like the easiest way to save money, but shutting your system off entirely can backfire—especially during peak summer in Ellis County and surrounding areas.

Without cooling:

• Indoor temperatures can climb rapidly
• Humidity levels can increase
• Materials like wood flooring and drywall can expand or warp
• Electronics and appliances are exposed to excessive heat

Instead of turning your system off, it’s better to raise the temperature to a safe, controlled level.

Recommended Temperature Range While You’re Away

For most homes in Texas, the ideal thermostat setting while you’re gone is: 78°F to 85°F

This range helps:

• Reduce energy usage
• Prevent extreme indoor heat buildup
• Keep humidity levels more stable
• Avoid overworking your system when you return

A Few Exceptions:

• Pets at home: Keep it cooler (typically 75°F–78°F)
• Heat-sensitive items: Artwork, electronics, or wood furnishings may benefit from a slightly lower setting
• Long trips: The longer you’re away, the more important it is to maintain a consistent temperature

Key Factors to Consider Before You Leave

1. Length of Your Trip

If you’re gone for a weekend, small adjustments won’t make much difference. But for longer trips, proper thermostat settings can prevent long-term wear on your home and HVAC system.

2. Texas Climate Conditions

Summers in North Texas regularly push into the 90s and 100s. That kind of heat can quickly impact indoor air quality and structural materials if left unmanaged.

3. Your Energy Efficiency Goals

Raising the thermostat while you’re away reduces runtime without completely shutting down your system—giving you the best balance of savings and protection.

Smart Ways to Manage Your Thermostat While Away

Use a Programmable or Smart Thermostat

A smart thermostat makes this easy. You can:

• Set a “vacation mode”
• Adjust temperatures remotely
• Cool your home down before you return

Many homeowners see noticeable energy savings just by using scheduling features properly.

Simple Ways to Keep Your Home Cooler (Without Overworking Your AC)

Even with your thermostat set higher, a few small steps can make a big difference:

• Close blinds and curtains to block direct sunlight
• Seal windows and doors to keep cool air in
• Switch to LED lighting (less heat output)
• Avoid leaving heat-generating appliances running

These small adjustments help your system maintain temperature more efficiently.

Don’t Skip AC Maintenance Before You Leave

If your system isn’t running efficiently, even a higher temperature setting can lead to unnecessary strain.

Before heading out, it’s a good idea to:

• Replace or clean your air filter
• Schedule a professional tune-up
• Make sure your thermostat is calibrated properly

Routine maintenance helps your system run smoothly while you’re away—and reduces the risk of coming home to a problem that requires AC repairs.

Protecting Your Home from Heat & Humidity Damage

Even in drier parts of Texas, prolonged heat can still cause issues like:

• Warped wood or flooring
• Cracked drywall
• Stressed plumbing components
• Increased indoor humidity levels

Your air conditioner plays a role in regulating both temperature and moisture—another reason not to turn it off completely.

Avoid Overworking Your System When You Return

If your home gets too hot while you’re away, your AC will have to work much harder to bring temperatures back down.

Keeping a steady temperature:

• Reduces strain on your system
• Helps avoid sudden breakdowns
• Gets your home comfortable faster when you return

Need Help Getting Your System Summer-Ready?

At Republic Home Services, we help homeowners across Ellis County and the surrounding areas keep their HVAC systems running efficiently—especially during extreme Texas heat.

Whether you need a quick AC tune-up, thermostat upgrade, or system inspection before your next trip, our team is here to help.

Schedule Your AC Service Today

Don’t leave your home (or your HVAC system) unprepared this summer. Reach out to Republic Home Services and travel with peace of mind knowing your home is protected while you’re away.