Even when no one is home, your house is still using energy. While some of that is necessary, leaving your house running like it’s occupied can waste a lot of energy. By taking a few simple energy-saving steps before you head out each day, you can make a big impact on your monthly bills.
Turn Things Off
Leaving equipment and appliances on when no one is there is a waste of energy. Turn off all lights, TVs and other unused devices, as well as floor and ceiling fans, before leaving.
Adjust the Thermostat
There’s no need to spend money keeping your empty house comfortable. Adjust your A/C to a higher temperature to save energy while you’re away from home. If you have a programmable unit, optimize savings and convenience by programming it according to your comings and goings.
Pull the Plug
Some electronic devices continue to use power even when turned off, including computers, TVs, coffee makers and phone chargers. Unplug chargers and other little-used devices when you’re not at home. Plugging multiple devices, such as an entertainment center, into one power strip makes it easy to shut off power with a single flip of the switch. Smart power strips can also be a good option. They can detect when devices are in standby mode and automatically cut power to those outlets.
Lower Water Heater Temperatures
If you’re heading out for the weekend or longer, put the temperature on your water heater to the lowest setting.
Get Smart and Make Saving Easier
While these energy-saving measures are simple, they’re easy to forget. Smart technology gives you more control, allowing you to save energy at home no matter where you are.
Did you forget to change the thermostat before you left? With a smart thermostat, it’s no problem. Just use the accompanying app on your smartphone to adjust the temperature from wherever you are. Some smart models can even learn your habits and program themselves based on your schedule.
Smart lightbulbs can be turned off remotely, or on a schedule, to prevent waste. Smart plugs and advanced power strips can automatically shut off power to unused electronic devices, saving you money on standby power whether you are home or not.
By combining simple conservation with advanced technology, you can reduce your home energy use whenever you want and wherever you are.
Learn even more ways to be energy-efficient and help reduce your electric bill.
