OBX Housing: Going on vacation? Follow these simple steps to prepare your home before leaving on vacation. You’ll save money & conserve energy.
Whether you’re planning a quick weekend getaway or a longer vacation, no one wants to come back to a high energy bill. Take some small steps that can help you save money on vacation by conserving energy at home while you’re away.
Short Trips
- Use window shades and keep curtains closed to keep the house cool from the afternoon sun.
- Turn off the lights. If you have a security timer, use CFLs (Compact Fluorescent Bulbs). CFL bulbs use about 70% less energy than traditional incandescent bulbs.
- Unplug small appliances and surge protectors. Small appliances can use big amounts of energy. The average cable box without a DVR uses 17.83 watts even when it is turned off!
Extended Getaways
- Lower your water heater settings to the lowest setting or put on “vacation mode” if you’re going to be gone for a few days or more. This will make sure you aren’t wasting money with standby losses.
- For an extended absence, clean out the refrigerator and turn the thermostat control to a slightly warmer setting. Also, refrigerators and freezers run more efficiently when they are full. Try filling them up with water jugs to fill the space.
- Turn off any outdoor water features like fountains and pumps.
- Unplug appliances or tools in the garage, shed or carport.