It is finally time for a much needed vacation. You have planned your trip to the last detail, and you cannot wait to get out the door and on the road to your vacation destination. But wait, you might not realize your electronics and appliances need a vacation, too. Here are some energy-saving tips that can ease your mind and lower your energy bills while you are away from home:
Turn off your air conditioning unit or set the thermostat on 85 degrees. You can save approximately one percent per degree you raise the temperature, provided that temperature change lasts for eight hours or more. This tip can save you beyond your vacation, as you can use these energy-saving settings while you're at work each day, or even while you're asleep. Install a programmable thermostat, and you won't have to lift a finger to save energy.
If your trip will last longer than three days, turn off your hot water heater. Just set a reminder to turn it back on when you return. It should only take a few hours to reheat the water. Consider lowering the temperature on your hot water heater to save energy all the time. Chances are you won't even notice the difference.
Turn off all the lights. Security lights can be set on a timer if necessary.
Unplug all of your electronic devices. Televisions, DVD players, computers and most coffee makers suck up to 10 percent of your total electric usage by using energy when plugged in but not turned on; this is known as phantom energy. Many gadgets like cell phone chargers and most appliances are also culprits.
Close curtains to keep the heat of the sun out.
Fill your refrigerator with full bottles of water. Refrigerators are more efficient when full.
Turn off the hot tub, as well as water fountains and outdoor pumps.
Now you are ready for that much needed and anticipated vacation. You deserve it. Contact us at Air Assurance today for more expert advice about energy savings in the Broken Arrow area.Our goal is to help educate our customers about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems). Air Assurance services Tulsa, Broken Arrow and the surrounding areas. Visit our websiteto see our current promotionsand get started today!