Summer Vacation Checklist

Turn off your water heater

Switch the breaker on your electric panel to off for your water heater circuit. Most models will reheat in about an hour, so there’s no need to keep a tank full of hot water while you’re away.

Water heaters amount to about 20% of your electricity bill, so turning yours off can make a big difference!

Close blinds and curtains

Sunlight can quickly overheat your home while you’re away, especially on the south and west sides of your home. (If you have indoor plants, move them to uncovered north- or east-facing windows for sunlight without overheating.)

Turn off your AC and fan

Turn off your AC and fans completely. It’s much cheaper to re-cool your home when you return than to keep your AC on when no one is home – even if you’re just leaving for a couple hours. Just make sure that your indoor plants are adequately hydrated.

With a smart thermostat (or connected line-voltage thermostat), you can turn your AC back from your phone on as you’re headed home – so your home is nice and cool when you arrive without wasting money during your trip.

Unplug phantom loads

Unplug small electronics when not in use, including TVs, gaming systems, coffee makers, laptop, rechargeable toothbrushes, radios, phone chargers, printers, and microwaves. Why pay to power these devices when you’re not using them?

Turn off the lights

Use a timer for a few security lights (with energy-efficient LED bulbs). Otherwise, turn off all lights – both indoor and outdoor.

Don’t forget your fridge

Set your refrigerator temperature higher to 38°F for the refrigerator and 5°F for the freezer. It will also stay cooler, longer with less energy used if it’s packed full. (Use food, water containers or ice trays.)

If you’re away for four or more weeks, consider emptying out your fridge and turning it off. Just make sure to leave the door open and open baking soda inside while you’re away so it’s as fresh as you are when you return.