Vacation Ready? Don’t Forget Your Thermostat!

By: Hal Watson Air Conditioning Company, Inc. | Published 07/16/2025

Planning a vacation? Before you leave your home in The Woodlands, Spring, or nearby Texas communities, don’t overlook one small but critical detail — your thermostat. With our hot, humid climate, the wrong thermostat setting can lead to expensive repairs, higher energy bills, and even damage to your home.

Why Not Just Turn the AC Off?

Many homeowners think cranking the thermostat up to 85–90°F or shutting the AC off completely will save money while they’re gone. Unfortunately, in Southeast Texas, that strategy can backfire.

Problems You Could Face

Humidity Spikes: Without your AC cycling occasionally, moisture builds up fast. That creates the perfect environment for mold and mildew to grow inside walls, closets, and furniture.
Musty Odors: Stale air plus humidity can leave your home smelling unpleasant, especially if you have pets or laundry inside.
Damage Risk: High heat and humidity can warp wood floors, damage furniture, and harm electronics.
Higher Cooling Costs Later: When you return to a super-hot house, your AC will work overtime to cool it down — spiking your energy bill and wearing out your system.

The Best Thermostat Setting While You’re Away

If you live in The Woodlands, Spring, or surrounding areas, the ideal settings are:

Set the thermostat between 78°F and 82°F
Use “Away” or “Eco” mode if your thermostat supports it
Keep fans on “Auto” (not “On”) to avoid wasting energy

This keeps your home dry, mold-free, and energy-efficient, compared to your usual 72–75°F setting.

Smart Thermostat Tip

If you have a smart thermostat, schedule it to start cooling your home 2–3 hours before you return. That way, you walk into comfort — not a sauna.

Bottom Line

A little thermostat planning can prevent mold, damage, and high bills in our Texas humidity. So before you head out of town, set your thermostat the smart way and protect your home in The Woodlands, Spring, and nearby communities.

Hal Watson Air Conditioning Co.
(281) 315-9834
518 Alana Lane, Spring, TX 77386
License: #TACLA22632C - Texas
halwatsonac.com