Everyone deserves a little break from it all, and if you haven’t taken one this year, consider this your cue to plan your next vacation. The best kind of vacation is one where you can get away from it all, including the upkeep that comes with your home.

With our heat, there’s definitely a wrong and right way to leave for vacation. You wouldn’t leave a faucet running as you take off for the airport, and your HVAC system should be considered an essential part of your checklist as well.

For ultimate convenience, as you start thinking about your next escape, we’ve compiled the best ways to reduce energy consumption while you’re not at home.

1. Unplug unnecessary appliances.

This is a good idea even if you aren’t vacating your home for a while. Like turning off your lights when you leave a room, unplugging the appliances you aren’t using can save you on your energy bill. Even if they’re off, devices that are left plugged in still draw electricity from your home.

You won’t have to worry if you’ve left the TV on since you’ve unplugged it for the weekend.

2. Shut the blinds.

You may already be diligently practicing this technique considering the immense heat we’re experiencing right now. Still, you can maintain your home temperature better when you’re away by closing your window blinds.

Standard window technology helps seal in the indoor air. However, light still streams through and can raise your indoor temperature by a couple degrees. Whether you’ve turned your AC off or set the temperature higher while you’re gone, it’ll be easier on your system and expenses by keeping as much sunlight out.

3. Switch your water heater to the vacation setting.

Your water heater either has a vacation mode or a pilot mode. Either will lower the maintained temperature of your water heater, saving you energy you won’t need while you’re away. When you’re ready to freshen up after a day of traveling home, don’t forget to switch it back to the original setting.

4. Set your thermostat.

This is your chance to make the most of your programmable thermostat. While you treat yourself on your vacation, conserve money back home by raising or lowering the average temperature depending on the time of year. Since the summer months are most likely where you’ll want to cut back, set your thermostat to 80 degrees or higher.

You won’t want to raise it any higher or turn it off altogether because the system still needs to take care of the humidity that builds up in the home with heat.

If you have pets staying at home, you can set a schedule with raised temperatures at night and slightly cooler temps during the day.

5. Use lights with timers.

Keeping your lights on the whole time you’re gone can get expensive. You can make it seem like someone is still home while conserving energy by installing smart lighting with timers. Just schedule the time when you want the lights to turn on.

Investing in home technology can actually save you money in the long run. Take advantage of smart home advancements and call Willard Air Conditioning, Plumbing & Electrical for installation expertise!