Should I Turn Off My AC Before Leaving Arizona for the Summer?

If you’re planning to leave Arizona for the summer, you might be asking, “Should I turn off my AC while I’m gone?”

With outdoor temperatures soaring past 100 degrees and summer sun beating down day after day, this is a decision that can impact your home’s comfort, efficiency, and even long-term integrity.

Here’s what Arizona homeowners and seasonal residents need to know before switching off their air conditioner.

Why Turning Off Your AC Completely Isn’t a Great Idea

It may seem like a money-saver to shut down your AC for the sumer, but in Arizona’s desert heat, this can actually put your home, indoor appliances and belongings at risk, especially if you’re gone for weeks or months.

When indoor temps climb into the triple digits:

• Wood floors, cabinets, and furniture can dry out, warp or crack.
• Personal belongings such as artwork, family photos, and keepsakes can fade or become heat-damaged.
• Electronics and appliances (refrigerators, wine rooms, ice machines) can overheat, degrade, or even fail due to overworking in extreme heat.
• Interior wall finishes such as paint or wall paper may blister, and adhesives can fail.
• Extreme heat can strain your AC system when restarted after months of disuse.
• Inactive AC units can become nesting spots for Arizona critters, who may chew wires or cause internal damage.

Instead of turning your system off entirely, the best approach is to raise the thermostat to reduce energy use while still protecting your home from extreme interior temperatures.

Best Thermostat Setting for a Vacant Arizona Home

Most experts recommend keeping your thermostat set between 80 and 85 degrees when you’re away. This helps:

• Avoid damage from exterior interior heat
• Reduce energy use while maintaining air circulation
• Ensure your system isn’t overworked when it cycles back on

If you have a programmable or smart thermostat, use the eco or away setting and make sure the fan is set to auto, not “on,” to conserve energy.

Prep Tips for Arizona Snowbirds Before You Leave

Simple pre-departure steps can go a long way:

• Set water heater to vacation mode
• Unplug non-essential electronics and turn off ceiling fans
• Use timers or smart plugs for lights
• Adjust pool/spa timers to save energy
• Shut down or empty your fridge is away for over a month
• Close window coverings to block heat
• Install a smart thermostat to monitor and adjust remotely; remember, Forbes will be here all summer long to help you while you’re away!
• Utilize wifi smart water detectors in the case of a leak (under every sink, behind refrigerator, AC units, wine rooms, water heaters)
• Call Forbes to schedule AC maintenance and replace air filters before you go.

A well-tuned system helps avoid mid-summer issues when you;re not around to catch them.

Partner With Forbes Refrigeration & Air Conditioning

At Forbes, we help Arizona homeowners and snowbirds prep their systems ready for summer. Whether you need a seasonal tune-up, a new thermostat, or peace of mind that your home is ready, we’re here for you.

Still looking for additional tips and tricks for the summer season, or wondering if you should turn off your AC before leaving the Valley? Don’t guess – give us a call or text at (480) 266-5211 or schedule online. We’ll make sure you’re set for a worry-free summer!