Before you leave for summer vacation, prep your home for energy savings.
Are you making a to-do list before heading out for summer break? Prepping your home for being away could save you money on your electric bill. In a few simple steps, you can make sure your home isn’t using more electricity than necessary while no one is home.
Follow these tips, and your bill will thank you later!
Take a load off your HVAC
Texas summers mean a heavy workload for your HVAC unit, which can account for more than half of your electric bill. While you’re away, turn the thermostat up to cool your bill down! Set it around 85 degrees to manage the humidity without running up your bill unnecessarily.
Tell your water heater to relax
With no one home to use the hot water, there’s no reason to waste electricity keeping it heated to the normal temperature. Lower the temperature by 10-20 degrees or turn it to the “vacation mode” setting if available.
Let your electronics unplug
Electronics and small appliances can use energy even in standby mode. Before you leave, unplug them or switch off their power strips or surge protectors.
The windows deserve a little shut-eye
Closing the curtains, shades, and blinds will help prevent sunshine from adding unnecessary heat to the house, reducing the load on your HVAC even further.
Lights out!
The most obvious tip can be the easiest to forget! Hit the lights on your way out. If you have security lights that need to run while you’re away, consider putting them on a timer so they don’t use electricity during daylight hours.
That’s it! If your bags are packed, you’re ready to go. Want more energy-saving tips for the summertime? Visit myPEC.com/savings.
