Going on Vacation?

beach.jpgIt's holiday time! It's nice to get away and it would also be nice to save some money on the energy bill when no one is home. Unfortunately, that is not always the case since most homes are full of appliances and electronic equipment that consume electricity whether you use them or not.
 

 Vacation/Extended Leave Checklist
 
  • The refrigerator is the largest user of electricity in both vacant and occupied homes. If you have a second refrigerator, empty and unplug it while you're away.
  • If you have a waterbed, be aware it's a major energy guzzler. Lower the temperature and cover the bed with two extra quilts to act as insulation.
  • Use timers on various lights, set to different on/off times, for both security and to avoid leaving lights on around the clock. If an internal light must be kept on all the time while you are away, use a compact fluorescent bulb to reduce the energy used by up to 75%.
  • If you're away during the winter, set the thermostat at 16°C (61°F)
  • Check the instructions for your water heater because some units have a "vacation" setting.
  • If you have a pool, make sure it's covered and check the timer on the pool pump.
  • Electronic devices draw a small, constant amount of power. Unplug as many as you can.