Nothing beats the call of the Northern Neck when summer vacation season arrives!
The Rivah Calls
Whether you’re heading to your cottage on the Rappahannock, your cabin near the Chesapeake, or that perfect getaway spot along the Potomac, the ‘Rivah’ region has been drawing families in for generations.
There’s something magical about trading the hustle and bustle for lazy days by the water, crab feasts on the dock, and those stunning River sunsets!
But before you pack up the car and head out for your extended stay at the vacation home, don’t forget about the house you’re leaving behind!
Your Home Needs TLC While You’re Gone
Your main residence doesn’t get to take a vacation just because you do. In fact, an empty house during Virginia’s sweltering summer months needs some special attention to stay comfortable, safe, and efficient while you’re enjoying life on the water.
Smart Thermostats
Here’s the game-changer for vacation-bound homeowners: programmable thermostats. These clever devices are perfect for conserving energy during your regular work schedule, and they’re absolutely essential when you’re planning an extended getaway to the Rivah.
When used optimally, programmable thermostats can save you almost $200 a year in energy costs. That’s money you could be spending on more important things – like that famous River seafood!
Setting Your “Away” Temperature
When you leave for an extended period, you can set the “hold” control for a constant temperature at an energy-saving level. During Virginia’s warm summer months, you want to keep the air conditioning to a minimum – which means keeping the house fairly warm. However, you don’t want to let the temperature rise too much because it can negatively affect your home and its furnishings.
You need a minimal level of air conditioning to guard against things like mold and mildew growth, and in extreme heat, the warping of wood furniture, cabinets, or floors. Additionally, making sure temperatures don’t get too high will keep food from spoiling in your pantry. Extreme heat can also place stress on your refrigerator/freezer, as well as your sensitive electronic equipment.
The Sweet Spot
Generally, you want to program a steady temperature of about 5 degrees warmer than usual during these warm months. So if you normally keep your home at 72°F, set it to 77°F while you’re away enjoying the Rivah life.
Having a programmable wifi thermostat that you can control remotely is a convenient way to check the temperature in your house from your vacation spot. It’s also a great option to have in case you want to adjust your home to a comfortable setting right before you return from the Northern Neck.
Extra Tip
Help your heating and air conditioning do its best by making sure all the exterior windows and doors are closed tight – but leaving the interior doors open to allow for proper air flow.
Tips for River Home Owners Too
These same thermostat tips apply when you’re heading in the opposite direction! If you’re leaving your River home to return to your primary residence, don’t forget to adjust your vacation home’s thermostat as well. Set it warmer than usual to maintain the property while keeping energy costs down. Your River retreat will be ready and comfortable for your next getaway.
Ready for Your Rivah Adventure
Don’t let AC worries keep you from fully enjoying your time at the vacation home. A little preparation goes a long way toward ensuring your main residence stays comfortable and efficient while you’re making memories on the water.
For help with your thermostat, to have a programmable thermostat installed, or if you need air conditioning repair before you head out for vacation, Gilman Heating, Cooling & Plumbing is here to help Richmond and Northern Neck families get ready for summer.
Ready to ensure your cooling system is set for your River getaway? Contact us at 804-207-3881 or schedule on our website!