4 Money Saving Preparations to Make Before a Vacation

It’s that time of year again, when homes are suddenly empty as families sneak off on summer getaways.  Whether this is the year for a big trip or you are just going to a cottage for a weekend, summer is the perfect time to relax and enjoy a little time off.

As we all know, a vacation can be expensive.  Plane tickets, gas prices, and purchasing clothing or other travel equipment can all add up!  And, that’s not even including the money you may spend while on vacation for meals, lodging, and souvenirs.  The internet is full of advice about how save money while on vacation or how to take a budget friendly trip.

However, in addition to buying your own groceries and embracing public transportation, there are a few preparations you can make at your own home that will help you to save money while you are away this summer.

4 Money Saving Preparations to Make Before a Vacation

1. Turn Up the Thermostat

If you have house sitters or pets staying at home, ignore this advice.  But, if your home will be sitting empty, please don’t be running your air conditioner full blast while you are gone.  Turn the thermostat up and you will turn your savings up.  If you have a smart thermostat connected to your phone, you can even adjust the temperature so it will be right where you want it to be when you get home.  No walking in to a warm sticky house after a long day of travel!

2. Unplug Electronic Devices

Electronic devices can continue to use electricity while they are plugged in, even if they are not actively in use.  In fact, televisions end up using more electricity during the time that it’s not being used!  Before you leave on your trip, unplug anything that you can in order to reduce this ‘phantom load‘ wasting your energy and money.

3. Check and double check for leaky faucets

A tiny dripping leak may not seem like a big deal, but if left unchecked for days on end it could turn into a lot of wasted water.  Before leaving for a trip, double check all sinks and showers to make sure they are closed up tight!

4. Turn Down the Water Heater

Once again, if you have a house sitter in the house, ignore this advice.  It might be kind of mean to not offer them hot water.  But, if your home will be empty, turn the temperature down on the hot water heater so energy is not wasted heating and keeping a tank full of water warm that won’t be used.

Enjoy your vacation even more, knowing that your home is helping you save money while you are gone.

Looking for more energy saving advice?  Contact us at FLAME Heating, Cooling, Plumbing and Electrical!