Include home energy savings in summer vacation plans

 School’s out and people are headed out on vacation. For our members leaving home this summer for a little “R & R,” we at Sequachee Valley Electric Cooperative advise you to make sure your home's energy use takes a vacation as well. Simple tips can save consumers money while they are away.

Air Conditioning

Set the thermostat to 85 degrees. If it is a programmable thermostat, use the “hold” or the “vacation” setting to keep it at that temperature.

 Electronics

Computers, CD/DVD players, TVs, and VCRs – these and other electronic appliances use electricity, even when they are not turned on. Unplug them before leaving.

 Lighting

Consumers can improve their energy savings, and their home's security, by using timers to operate lights each night. And by installing compact fluorescent bulbs, or CFLs, in those lamps, consumers will be saving more energy, up to 66 percent less in each lamp, and the bulb will last approximately 10 times longer than a regular incandescent bulb.

 Water Heating

Turn the water heater's temperature down to the lowest setting. Many water heaters have a “vacation” setting for this purpose. Leave a reminder to turn it back up upon returning home. 

• Waterbed owners should unplug the heater, or at least lower the temperature 10 degrees.
• Pool owners should shorten the operating time for the pool filter and automatic cleaning sweep (if applicable). A pool cover can save energy too. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, up to 70 percent of pool heat loss is by evaporation.

Refrigerator

Adjust the refrigerator control to a warmer setting. If going on an extended trip, consider emptying the fridge and turning it off. Remember to leave the door open to prevent mildew.

 For more information on how to use your energy more efficiently this summer, and all year round, visit SVEC’s website, www.svalleyec.com.

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