Summer travel trips

Published July 1, 2010
By The Energy Star Program
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. -- As you get ready to travel--even if it's a short trip, like 4th of July weekend--don't forget to take these few easy steps at home before you leave:

· Turn up your thermostat to 85 degrees (unless you're leaving pets at home, of course). Experts agree that the energy saved from turning your thermostat up in the summer while you're away is greater than the energy used to cool your house back down after you return.

· Close window blinds and shades to block out the sun's heat. It's amazing how much indoor heat simply comes from the heat of the sun though the windows. Most ENERGY STAR qualified windows reduce the "heat gain" into your home more than typical windows do, without reducing the visible light. You get the light you need without the uncomfortable heat.

· Aside from those one or two lights that you may want to leave on for safety, make sure everything else is turned off--all lights, ceiling fans, the alarm on your radio, and other small appliances.