It’s summertime in Texas, and all of us are taking off for beach getaways, mountain retreats, waterparks, amusement parks, and family reunions. However, it is also the most expensive time to cool your home.
The HVAC experts at Morrow Mechanical are here to help you take advantage of your vacation time and save power while you’re taking some time off.
1. Turn Your Air Conditioner Off
It’s pointless to cool your home when you’re not there. If you don’t have a programmable thermostat, simply turning your air conditioner off at the thermostat will help you save electricity.
2. Unplug
Unplugging as many electronics as possible is one of the best ways to save power while you’re away. Even though you don’t have cell phones charging or a TV turned on, electronics can still use power. These electronics, often called ‘energy vampires’ will suck power even though they’re not being used. Unplugging vampire electronics could save you a shocking amount on your utility bill.
3. Reduce Your Water Heater’s Temperature
Obviously, you don’t need hot water when you’re not home. Newer model water heaters have a ‘vacation mode.’ This setting reduces the temperature of your water heater to 50 degrees.
If your water heater doesn’t have a vacation mode, you don’t have to miss out on the savings. You can turn the water heater’s temperature down as much as possible. Or, you can simply turn off power to the water heater at the breaker.
4. Use Timers
It’s nerve-wracking to leave your home unattended. To deter thieves, many homeowners choose to leave some lights on to give the appearance that they’re still home. However, this is not only an ineffective way to keep your home safe, it is also a huge energy consumer. Investing in a timer is a great way to increase the security of your home and slash your utility bill.
5. Draw the Shades
If you’ve turned off your air conditioning, but don’t want to return to a sweltering house, draw the curtains and close the shutters. Not only will this keep your home at a decent temperature, it will also keep prying eyes out.
6. Program Your Thermostat
If you have a programmable thermostat, be sure to take advantage of its features on your next vacation. You can set your thermostat higher when you are away to reduce your cooling expenses, then set it to cool on the day you return.
7. Don’t Empty Your Refrigerator
Many homeowners don’t know of the “four week rule” when it comes to refrigerators. Though you might be tempted to empty your refrigerator before a trip, if you’re going to be away less than four weeks, keep it fully stocked. Why? Because when your refrigerator is stocked with cold items, those cold foods and drinks help keep each other cold. It takes more energy to constantly cool the air in an empty fridge than it does to maintain the temperature of already-cold items.
However, if you are away for more than four weeks your best bet is to completely empty your fridge and unplug it.
Want to know more about how to save power when you’re on vacation? Call Morrow Mechanical!
We hope these tips help you save money and energy during your summer vacation. If you need more suggestions, or require HVAC service, call Morrow Mechanical. Our HVAC experts serve the Houston and Spring, Texas areas with top-notch professionalism and HVAC products. Call us today at 281-301-0560 or schedule your service online.