Linda's Tips
This month's tips come from Edison Electric Institute.
Include Home Energy Savings in Summer Vacation Plans
Going on vacation this summer? Make sure your home's energy use takes a vacation as well. Listed below are some simple tips to save money while you are away.
If you have a vacation home, be sure to follow these steps when you leave it to return back home.
Air Conditioning
Set the thermostat to 85 degrees -- use the "hold" or the "vacation" setting if you have a programmable thermostat 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 you leave.
Lighting
You can improve your energy savings, and your security, by using timers to turn lights on-and-off each night. If you use compact fluorescent bulbs in those lamps, you
will be saving more energy -- up to 66 percent less in each lamp -- and the bulb will last up to 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 to guide you. 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.
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Pool owners should shorten the operating time for the pool filter and automatic cleaning sweep (if applicable). A pool cover can save energy -- up to 70 percent of pool heat loss
is by evaporation according to the U.S. Department of Energy.
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 efficiently this summer and all year round, please contact your electric utility, or visit www.EEI.org/WiseUse.
Edison Electric Institute (EEI) is the association of United States shareholder-owned electric companies, international affiliates and industry associates worldwide. Their U.S. members serve 97
percent of the ultimate customers in the shareholder owned segment of the industry, and 71 percent of all electric utility ultimate customers in the nation.
