Updated October 2026
Never turn the AC off when you leave a South Florida home for the summer. The air conditioner is what keeps humidity down, and humidity is what lets mold grow.
What to set it to
Many owners set the thermostat somewhere around 78 to 82°F while they're away. If your system has a humidistat or dehumidifier setting, use it. The EPA recommends keeping indoor humidity below 60% (ideally 30 to 50%). Ask your AC company what's right for your system and home.
Before you leave
- Have the AC serviced and the condensate drain line cleared. A clogged drain line is one of the most common causes of leaks in empty condos.
- Put in a fresh filter.
- Leave interior doors open so air circulates.
- Leave closet and cabinet doors slightly open in rooms prone to dampness.
- Don't block vents with furniture or boxes.
Signs of trouble
- A musty smell
- Condensation on windows or walls
- Water in or around the air handler drain pan
- Dark spots on ceilings, walls, grout or around AC vents
- A thermostat reading well above your setting (the AC may have failed)
Why someone should check
An AC can fail in the middle of a July heat wave, and nobody would know. That's why our weekly visits include the thermostat, a humidity reading and the air handler and drain pan every time, with the readings in your photo report. If something's off, we call you and bring in your AC company with your OK.
Learn more about our Home Watch Plan ($175/month), or read how often a vacant home should be checked.
Want someone watching your home? Weekly visits and a photo report after every one, $175/month.
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