Optimal Winter Temperatures for Vacant Homes - Barnard Heating and Cooling

Winter brings a chill that can penetrate the walls of your home and pose significant risks, especially if the house is vacant. If you aren't sure what temperature to leave a vacant house in winter, keep reading to learn more.

Can You Leave a House Unheated in the Winter? Understanding the Risks

Leaving a house unheated during the colder months is a gamble that can lead to severe issues like frozen pipes and water damage. The potential for water damage escalates significantly as outdoor temperatures drop. Unheated interiors can lead to frozen and burst pipes, causing extensive water damage that can be financially draining. Moreover, homes left completely cold may require excessive energy costs to reheat once you return, further amplifying the financial burden. Keeping your home at a consistently moderate temperature helps mitigate these risks, ensuring both the structural integrity of your property and more manageable energy expenses in the long run.

The most alarming threat to an unoccupied home in winter is frozen pipes. When water inside pipes freezes, it expands, and this can potentially cause the pipes to burst. This can lead to extensive water damage, a costly and time-consuming problem to repair. Maintaining an adequate temperature inside your home is essential to prevent this.

Optimal Temperature Settings

So, should you leave a house unheated in winter? The simple answer is no. To safeguard your home, it's recommended to keep the thermostat set to at least 55°F. This temperature helps keep the internal atmosphere of the house above freezing to reduce the risk of frozen pipes.

Protecting Water Pipes

To further protect your water pipes, consider opening cabinet doors to allow warmer air to circulate around the plumbing, especially if the pipes are located in external walls. Additionally, insulating your pipes is a prudent step to provide extra protection against cold temperatures.

Maintaining Your Water Heater

Don’t forget your water heater! Set it to a lower but safe setting to prevent freezing while conserving energy. This step is important, particularly for an extended period of vacancy.

Smart Thermostats: A Wise Investment

Investing in a smart thermostat can offer immense peace of mind. These devices allow you to monitor and adjust your home’s temperature remotely, so you can keep it at a safe level during your absence. It's a convenient way to prevent frozen pipes and manage your home's heating system efficiently.

Regular HVAC Winter Maintenance: Your Safety Net

Scheduling regular HVAC winter maintenance is crucial. Barnard Heating and Cooling emphasizes the importance of preventative maintenance to avoid breakdowns during winter. Our team of professionals can verify your heating system operates efficiently and reliably throughout the season. This routine check-up can save you from the nightmare of returning to a cold, damaged home.

Preparing your home for winter, especially when you plan to be away, is vital for its safety and integrity. By maintaining the right temperature, safeguarding your water pipes, and investing in smart solutions, you can prevent the severe consequences of leaving a house unheated in winter.