While You Are Away..

4/9/2018 (Permalink)

Save Energy While You’re Away

• Unplug appliances that consume electricity even when they’re not in use such as DVD players, microwaves, coffeemakers and computers (also make sure to disconnect the computer from the Internet). This is both a cost savings and a safety issue. It’s not unheard of to have a cat tiptoe across a counter and unwittingly turn on the coffeemaker.
• Turn the water heater down to the “vacation,” “low” or “pilot” setting.
• During the winter, set your thermostat to 60 degrees F and have a neighbor check on the house regularly for furnace malfunctions.
• In the summer, set your air conditioner to 85 degrees F so it runs less often but keeps electronics cool and gives the house an occupied appearance. Having no air conditioner humming and no windows open on a sweltering day is a sure signal to a thief that no one is home.
• If you’ll be gone for an extended period, clean out the fridge (and freezer) completely, shut it off and leave the door propped open.