4 Steps to Lower Your Electric Bill When You’re Away From Home

Whether you’re on vacation, on a business trip, or just away from your home for a few days, your first thoughts usually aren’t focused on ways to lower your electric bill when you’re away. It’s true that your home uses less energy when you’re away from it, since you won’t be using lights or appliances, but there are several invisible costs that could add up even when nobody is around.

If you’re interested in trying to lower your electric bill while you’re away from home, you can put your strategy into action with these four simple steps:

Step 1: Unplug Your Big Appliances

Most major appliances use energy even when they aren’t plugged in, meaning even if all your appliances are turned off, you could be spending money on electricity. Unplug major appliances like your television, and any charging cables for mobile devices you might have plugged in.

Step 2: Disable Unnecessary Automated Features

If you have lights that are timed to turn on when you come home, you might be able to disable the feature to save money. Throughout your home, you might have other automated features, such as alarms or other timers; be sure to disable the ones you can.

Step 3: Adjust Timers and Temperature Gauges

Before you leave, set your refrigerator to a warmer setting, if possible. Most of the cold air loss in refrigerators is due to opening and closing the door. Since you won’t be there, the refrigerator will operate more efficiently and you’ll be able to save money on your electric bill. Additionally, if there are necessary automated lights or appliances in your home, adjust the timers so they’re used appropriately.

Step 4: Control the Internal Temperature

Keep your home colder in winter or warmer in summer when you’re away to save money on electricity. If you have a smartphone or mobile device, consider purchasing a smart thermostat and an app to allow you to control the temperature remotely.

With these four steps in place, you’ll be able to lower your electric bill even when you’re away from home. For more energy news and money saving tips, keep reading the Star Energy Partners blog!