Can You Save Money on Your Energy Bill Even When You’re Not Home?
If you’re traveling out of town during the winter season, whether you’re going to grandma’s or to somewhere warm for a much-needed getaway, your pre-trip checklist probably includes plenty of important items. Your bags are packed and your itinerary is set…but there’s one thing you may have overlooked. If you’re taking a holiday vacation, save money on your heating costs with these tips!
It’s easy to think about keeping your home energy-efficient while you’re there, but it’s just as important to consider when you’re leaving for a vacation. Turning your thermostat down helps to ensure that you’re still saving money on your energy bill, even when you’re not home! Here are some important factors to consider when setting your thermostat before a trip out of town.
What is the ideal temperature?
The general rule of thumb is to set your thermostat between 55-60 degrees when leaving for a trip out of town. This is the ideal range to keep your home warm enough to prevent your pipes from freezing while still helping you to keep your energy bill low. However, you’ll need to keep other variables in mind, such as how long you’ll be gone, how low the forecasted temperature will be, and how well your home is insulated. If you have a pet that will be staying home during your trip, this is important to consider as well – you may want to consult with your veterinarian. Be prepared and make a plan!
Concerned about your pipes?
So you’ve decided to lower your thermostat while you’re on your holiday vacation, but the weather forecast calls for some really cold temperatures. Leaving your cabinet doors open while you’re away can help the heated air in your home to reach your pipes and prevent them from bursting.
Won’t my house be cold when I get home from my vacation?
While there are many upsides to lowering your thermostat during a winter weekend out of town, your home may be a little chilly when you return from your trip. One option to avoid this discomfort is to install a programmable thermostat. These thermostats can be customized to control the temperature based on what days and times you’d like your settings to be changed. Newer “smart” models can even be controlled remotely from your mobile device. With programmable thermostats, you can still save money on your energy bill and keep your home energy-efficient while still maintaining your ideal level of comfort.
You’ve got the perfect trip planned and you’re ready to leave. But just as you wouldn’t leave your lights or television on while you’re out of town, it’s smart to ensure your furnace isn’t running unnecessarily while you’re gone. No one wants to come home from a great vacation to a high energy bill!
After your holiday vacation, save money on your heating costs by calling us at (518) 745-0401! When you need residential heating, cooling, and HVAC services in Glens Falls, Queensbury, Saratoga region, our expert staff and technicians can provide the expertise you need for all of your heating and cooling needs.
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