Are you considering a trip yet this summer? Would you like to save a little money while you’re away? By taking a few simple steps, you can significantly cut back on your energy bill while enjoying some summer rays.
Let’s Take a Look At Some Of Wyckoff’s Helpful Hints:
Turn off your air conditioner
If turning off your air conditioner is not an option, setting the thermostat to 85°F or higher will aid in the cost of cooling your home. Note, for each degree you raise your thermostat, your electric bill will decrease by two to three percent. A programmable thermostat is another great option. Whether you are gone on vacation or simply away for a weekend getaway, it will conserve energy and cool your home before you return. Remember, if pets will be staying in your home, the temperature should not be set so high that it will cause them discomfort. Consult your veterinarian for advice on a pet safe environment.
Pay close attention to your refrigerator
One of the biggest energy consumers in your home, your refrigerator is constantly working. If you are taking a short trip, you can save on your energy bill by adjusting the thermostats on your refrigerator and freezer to higher settings (38°F for the refrigerator and 5°F for the freezer). For longer periods of time, a month or more, consider emptying your refrigerator and unplugging it. This can result in significant savings. Helpful hint: Be sure to clean your refrigerator out, prop the door open and place a box of baking soda inside if you choose to turn it off. This will prevent mold growth.
Unplug devices
While turning off electronic devices does save energy, digital displays, chargers, toasters and other appliances continue to extract energy whether you are home or not. Standby power has been estimated to contribute to ten percent of your electric bill. Unplug all applicable electronics and appliances before you leave. This not only saves energy, but also eliminates potential fire hazards should there be a power surge while you are away.
Turn off or adjust the temperature setting on your water heater
If you have a tank unit, your water heater will continue heating water even while you are away. Set the temperature setting as low as possible to reduce standby heat loss. If possible, you may wish to turn off your water heater at the circuit breaker or fuse box. This can result in four to ten dollars in savings per month. Keep in mind, if you have a gas heater, turn the gas valve off to be safe. Upon returning home, the hot water tap should be allowed to run before the power and gas are turned on to make sure the water tank isn’t empty. Heating the tank without water can result in damage to the unit.
Install timers or motion detectors on your lights
Rather than keeping a light or two on throughout the entirety of your vacation, install timers on indoor and outdoor lights for lighting a few hours each day. Not only will this conserve energy, it will also provide security creating the illusion that someone is home. Automatic timers range in cost from $10 to $30 per unit, a relatively inexpensive cost for deterring unwanted visitors. Motion detectors are also a helpful security option so your neighbors can help keep watch.
Lower blinds and close curtains
Conserve energy by keeping cool air in and closing the sun’s rays out. This simple act will keep heat from coming in during your summer getaway.
After reviewing our tips on how to conserve energy while on vacation this season, we hope you are inspired to catch some rays this season and find a few ways to save money at the same time. No matter the season, Wyckoff Heating & Cooling is here to help. For more seasonal tips, contact us or call (800) 246-0273.