Summer is here, and for many Albertan homeowners, that means it’s time to hit the road and enjoy some well-deserved vacation time.
But just because you’re leaving home doesn’t mean your energy bill needs to skyrocket. With a few simple adjustments, you can ensure that your home stays energy-efficient while you’re away.
Here are seven practical and easy-to-implement energy-saving tips for your summer travel.
1. Unplug unused appliances
Did you know that even when turned off, many electronics continue to draw power? Before you head out, do a quick sweep of your home and unplug items like TVs, computers, and kitchen appliances to prevent phantom power consumption.
Why it works: Phantom power (or standby power) can add up, especially if you have many devices in your home. Unplugging these gadgets prevents unnecessary energy waste.
2. Adjust your thermostat
Smart thermostats are invaluable tools for maintaining an energy-efficient home while you’re away. Set your thermostat to ‘away’ or ‘eco’ mode to keep your home at a reasonable temperature without wasting energy.
Another advantage is the ability to control the thermostat remotely. Turn off the energy-saving mode from your smartphone to ensure your home is at the perfect, comfortable temperature for when you return.
Why it works: Air conditioning typically accounts for a large portion of energy use during the summer. Adjusting the temperature with your thermostat reduces the A/C workload, saving you energy and money.
3. Use light timers
You don’t want to come back to a pitch-black house, and leaving the lights on isn’t exactly wallet-friendly, either. The perfect middle ground? Light timers.
Set them to turn on in the evening and off during the day. Just remember that these devices often rely on WiFi, so keep your internet router on before you leave.
Why it works: Timers create the appearance of someone being home, which can deter would-be intruders. At the same time, they conserve energy by limiting the hours your lights are on. It’s a win-win for security and savings!
4. Set the water heater to vacation mode
Most water heaters have a ‘vacation mode’ that lowers energy use when not in use. When you activate this mode, the heater will reduce its temperature to conserve energy. This means it won’t heat water when no one is using it.
Why it works: Water heaters are among the most energy-consuming devices in your home. Reducing their operating temperature saves energy and reduces wear and tear on the unit.
5. Upgrade your appliances
If you plan on being away for an extended period of time, consider upgrading to energy-efficient appliances. When purchasing new appliances, look for ENERGY STAR-rated devices to get the best in energy efficiency.
Why it works: Energy-efficient appliances use less electricity and can significantly reduce your energy bills. Plus, they’re good for the planet, too!
6. Close blinds and curtains
Keeping your blinds and curtains closed helps block out the intense summer sun, reducing the amount of heat that enters your home. Even if you decide to leave your A/C on at a higher temperature to prevent humidity, it won’t have to work as hard to keep your home cool.
Why it works: Reduced sunlight prevents indoor temperatures from rising, leading to lower energy consumption by your A/C unit.
7. Seal windows and doors
A little weatherstripping can go a long way in maintaining your home’s energy efficiency. Make sure all windows and doors are tightly closed and sealed. This not only keeps the cool air in but also prevents the hot summer air from creeping indoors.
Why it works: Properly sealed windows and doors improve your home’s insulation, maintaining indoor temperature more efficiently and reducing energy use.
Need help optimizing your home for energy savings?
We'll keep your home energy-efficient while you’re off enjoying summer vacation. Here’s what we offer:
- Air Conditioning Tune-Up to keep your A/C running efficiently all summer long.
- Window Replacement & Exterior Door Replacement to keep the heat out and improve insulation.
- Thermostat Installation to make your home cozier and reduce your energy usage.
- Roof Replacement to improve insulation and energy savings.
- Hot Water Tank Installation keep your systems in tip-top shape.
Book home services in Alberta this summer and travel worry-free knowing your home is cool, efficient, and ready for your return.
