How to Save Energy While on Vacation

The sun is out and the beach is calling you! Everyone enjoys a get away during the hot summer months but before you hit the road, consider these tips to save money and conserve energy at home.

Unplug everything

Many people don’t realize how many appliances use electricity even when not in use. It may sound like work but taking the time to unplug every unnecessary electric appliance or device will be worth it. Chargers, microwaves, game consoles, televisions, coffee makers all use electricity while plugged in, even when not being used. Stand by modes are not good enough, you have to pull the plug in order to save energy.

Adjust your thermostat

Air conditioning is a big culprit in raising energy usage and helping that electric bill skyrocket. If you are leaving for an extended period of time, adjust the thermostat. By increasing the temperature to 28-29 degrees you will save money but keep things cool enough to prevent damage. Your personal belonging, electronics and furniture will be unharmed.  Programmable thermostats are a huge help.  They can be set to cool the home off again just in time for your return. 

Turn off the lights

Walk through the home and switch off all lights.  Using timers or motion-detecting lights for security purposes is a great idea but be sure to use energy-efficient LED bulbs in the fixtures that are set to light up.

Keep out the sun

Windows let in light, which creates excess heat.  Close blinds and curtains to moderate the temperature and prevent your air conditioner from running excessively. This will save energy and protect your furniture from sun damage. 

Energy Saving Tips for the Hot Summer Months

Summer is in full swing, bringing lots of fun but the high temperatures can also mean an increase to your electric bill. These simple and inexpensive actions can help you save energy and money during the hot summer months.

Before you leave home for an extended absence turn off your air conditioner, or at a minimum,  turn up the thermostat. This is an easy way to use less power. Also, make sure the air filter is clean. Dirty air filters cause air conditioning units to work harder, therefore using more energy.

Heat up your food without heating up the house. A microwave is much faster and more efficient at heating things up than an oven.  Choosing to BBQ outdoors whenever possible is a great help as well. Not only does this bring the taste of summer to the table, it keeps the heat outside.

Keep the sun out. Curtains, blinds and shades keep the sun’s hot rays out of your house. Keep them closed on sunny days during the summer season. Also, trees planted near your house will add shade with the added bonus that, when the tree sheds its leaves in the fall, the sunlight will return just in time for the colder months.

If you use air conditioning, installing ceiling fans will allow you to raise the thermostat setting about 4°F with no reduction in comfort. Just remember to turn off the fan when you leave the room. Fans cool people by creating a wind chill effect but they do not actually cool the room.

Solar power your laundry. Skip the dryer and go for an old-fashioned clothes line.  You can’t beat free energy from the sun, but first make sure there is no rain in the forecast.

Onyx Energy is committed to helping both property owners and tenants reduce their energy use. For more information on energy conservation visit www.onyxenergy.ca.