Include Energy Savings in Your Vacation Plans

When you’re planning your summer getaway, don’t forget to include saving energy while you’re gone. Even though no one’s home, your house can still use a surprising amount of energy. 

The nation’s electric companies offer these simple, no-cost pointers to help you. The money you save will make your vacation memories all the more enjoyable.

Electronics

• Your home computer(s), stereos, TVs and set-top boxes, DVRs and DVD players all use electricity, even when they’re not turned on. Unplugging these products (as long as you’re not recording or downloading) before a trip can help you save energy.

Air Conditioning

• Set the thermostat higher than you typically do when you’re home. A setting in the low 80’s is ideal. A programmable thermostat can automatically hold this temperature setting. For optimum comfort and savings, set your thermostat to 78 degrees when the house is occupied. Also, make sure to close the drapes or blinds on windows facing south and west. This can help keep those rooms cool by shading them from the hot afternoon sun.

Lighting

• Consider using timers to turn lights on and off each night to improve security by giving your home a lived-in look. Use compact fluorescent bulbs for inside and outside lights that will be on the longest. Make sure that the compact fluorescent bulbs are compatible with the timers. These use about two-thirds less power and last up to 10 times longer. If a compact fluorescent bulb is not compatible with the timer(s), consider using high-efficiency halogen bulbs, which can save about 30 percent of the energy used compared to regular incandescent bulbs.

Water Heating

• If you are going on a lengthy trip, turn down your water heater’s temperature to the “low” or “warm” or “vacation” setting. Leave a reminder to turn it back up upon returning home.

Refrigerator

• Turn off the icemaker before you leave. If you are going on an extended trip, consider emptying the fridge and turning it off (remember to leave the door open to prevent mildew).

For more information on using electricity efficiently, please visit your electric utility’s Web site or visit www.getenergyactive.org.