Whether you’re stuck at work or being whisked away on a whirlwind vacation, there are countless ways to save energy even while you’re not at home.
Turn Up the Temperature
While you’re away, leaving the AC at the temperature your family prefers while at home can waste a lot of energy. Instead, be sure to turn the thermostat up to 85°F when you leave for vacation so you don’t cool an empty home. When leaving for work, consider setting it between 76-78°F. For each degree the temperature is increased, electricity usage will be reduced by 2 to 3 percent.
Upgrade to a Smart or Programmable Thermostat
If you haven’t upgraded to a smart or programmable thermostat, there has never been a better time! These thermostats can change the temperature automatically based on your preferences, so you can set a temperature that is different when you’re home than while you’re away. See our rebates here .
Close Your Curtains
In the warmer months, close your shades or curtains when you will be away for an extended period of time to help keep out the summer heat. In the winter, open them during the day to let the heat from the sun shine in.
Turn Off Your Lights
Turning off the light when you leave the room is one of the easiest ways to save energy. If you’re going to be away from your home for an extended period of time and want to have a light on, lights set on a timer are an inexpensive and energy-efficient alternative to leaving lights on throughout the entire day and night.
Save with Smart Power Strips
“Vampire power” is the energy that’s used when electronic devices are plugged in but not in use. Smart power strips sense when the equipment is not in use and will stop the wasted energy from flowing to the electronic device until you turn it back on, saving you money throughout the year. This way when you’re away, you don’t have to worry about unplugging all your devices and appliances.
Turn Your Outlet Into a Savings Socket
One of the easiest ways to save energy is by adding smart plugs to your outlets. Smart plugs insert directly into an outlet and allow you to monitor the energy your devices use. It connects to your WiFi so you can see how much energy you are using throughout the day. You can remotely create an energy savings schedule so you don’t have to worry about electronic appliances draining your energy bills while you’re away.
You’re saving energy like a pro now, even when you’re not at home! Next, learn learn how to rearrange your home to be more energy efficient!
