Duke Energy Offers Tips To Save On Your Electric Bill While You're Away

Last updated on Friday, September 2, 2016

(PLAINFIELD) - Before heading out for the long Labor Day weekend, customers should consider these tips from Duke Energy Indiana to lower their electric bills while they are away.

Don't cool an empty house. Set your air conditioner's thermostat to 80-85 degrees Fahrenheit when you will be away for several days. If you have a programmable thermostat, use the "vacation" mode. Adjusting your thermostat just a few degrees will have a significant impact. A change of just three degrees for 24 hours a day can save 30 percent on your cooling costs. Also, be sure the fan is set to "auto," not "on." Leaving the fan on all the time can cost up to $25 a month.
Turn off your electric water heater at your breaker if you plan on leaving home for a few days. Most models will reheat the water to the set temperature in about an hour. A large amount of the cost of running a water heater is due to the "standby" losses. Water heaters are among the top three energy-using appliances in your home.
Unplug all electrical equipment. Electronic appliances can act like energy vampires, sucking power even when they are not in use. These are called phantom loads. Your television, coffee maker, cable boxes, game console, laptop computer and even your rechargeable toothbrushes are a few examples of these phantom power users. Use the Duke Energy energy slayer calculator to see how much you can save (www.duke-energy.com/energyvampire) by pulling the plug before you head out of town.
Make sure fans and lights are turned off. For security lights, consider using a timer. And, switch bulbs to LED or CFL versions to save even more.
Close window curtains and shades. Blocking out the hot afternoon sun reduces stress on the air conditioner.

These simple, no-cost steps will reduce your home energy use and help keep a few dollars in your pocket for next year's vacation fund. Savings will vary depending on a number of factors including number of days on vacation, tips implemented, home size, cooling system efficiency and insulation level.

Duke Energy is an industry leader in the development and implementation of programs to help customers save energy and money. Customers can save year-round by taking advantage of the many options the company offers.

Visit duke-energy.com/save for additional information on all of Duke Energy Indiana's energy-saving programs, rebates and incentives.

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