Save On Your Electric Bill While On Vacation

We all love going on vacations.  But just because your house is empty of people doesn’t mean that the appliances and lights have stopped using electricity and adding unnecessary cost to your electric bill.

So before heading out the door for the beach, lake, site seeing tour or Grandma’s, follow these easy tips to save energy and money while you’re away.

Turn Down the A/C
There is no reason to keep the central air running, unless pets will be left at the house. Set the thermostat at 85 or turn it off completely.  If the pets are left in the home, then the temperature should not be set so high that it will cause them unnecessary discomfort. For every degree a thermostat is raised during the summer, a homeowner can save 2-3 percent on their electricity bill.

Unplug the Electronics
Electronic devices with digital displays and standby power settings, such as digital clocks, TVs, DVD players, computers and coffeemakers, should be unplugged.  This not only saves energy, but also eliminates a possible fire hazard if there is a power surge while no one is home.   These small loads cost consumers approximately one month’s electricity bill each year.

Shut Off the Water Heater
Water heaters consume a large amount of energy.  Shut off the circuit breaker to the water heater when you leave, and if you have a gas heater, turn the gas valve off to be safe.

Your water heater accounts for 14%-25% of the energy consumed in your home and a large percentage of this cost is due to the loss of heat when the water heater is in the “stand by” mode.

Switch Lights Off
Make sure all the lights are switched off.  When using timers or motion-detecting lights to create the illusion of being at home, use energy-efficient LED bulbs in the fixtures.

Adjust Refrigerator Temperature
Your refrigerator can be made more energy efficient by adjusting the temperature slightly warmer.  If vacationing for a long period of time, empty the refrigerator and freezer, and unplug them to maximize savings.

Close Blinds & Curtains
Windows let in light, which creates excess heat.  Close blinds and curtains to moderate the temperature and prevent your air conditioner from running excessively.

With these simple tips, you and your family can enjoy a great vacation and a smaller energy bill when you return home.