AC Settings for Snowbirds and Seasonal Homes

Don't turn it off

Without cooling, humidity climbs and mold can grow on walls, furniture and fabrics. Leave the AC on at a raised setting.

Use humidity control

A thermostat with a humidity setting, or a whole-house dehumidifier, keeps moisture in check while using less power.

Smart thermostats

Remote alerts tell you if the house gets too warm or the system stops, so a neighbor or contractor can check.

Before you leave

Change the filter, flush the drain line and make sure the float switch works.

Water heater and fixtures

Turning off the water supply reduces leak risk, but leave the AC power on.

A house watcher

Ask someone to check the home after storms and every few weeks in summer.

When you return

Expect a fresh filter to be needed and book a check if the house smells musty.

Learn more

See dehumidifiers.

Check the condo rules

Some associations set rules on minimum AC settings for empty units, because a humid unit can affect its neighbors.

Pick a sensible setting

Many seasonal owners leave the thermostat in the high 70s or low 80s with humidity control turned on. Ask your contractor what suits your house, since layout, shade and insulation all play a part.

Closets and cabinets

Leave interior doors and some closet doors open so cooled air reaches every room. Closed spaces with no airflow are where mildew starts first.

Have a plan for outages

If a storm cuts power while you're away, someone should check the house afterward and make sure the AC restarted. Smart thermostats show whether it's back online.

More air conditioning guides

• AC Not Cooling in Fort Myers? Start Here
• The Rainy Season and Your AC
• Hurricane Prep for Your AC
• When to Replace an AC in Southwest Florida
• Checking a Florida AC Contractor's License