While everyone is in a hurry to get away for a while, not as many people are thinking of the special care that their electrical system requires during this time.
The time of year from the end of November until the first week in January sees a whole lot of traveling. Many families travel to see friends and relatives for the holiday season. In most cases, this means that their homes are left empty while they’re away. While everyone is in a hurry to get away for a while, not as many people are thinking of the special care that their electrical system requires during this time.
The Circuit Breaker: On or Off?
If you’re leaving your home empty for an extended period this holiday season, you may think that turning off your circuit breaker will save you some money. Actually, you should only turn this off when absolutely necessary. Every time you turn the breaker off and back on again, it sustains a little bit of damage. While this isn’t necessarily noticeable for several years, it can cause damage to the device if done too often, creating a fire hazard. It is important to consider your appliances that depend on the breaker for power: your water heater for instance. Being left off in cold weather can cause extensive damage to a water heater.
Reducing Electricity Use While You’re Away
Since turning off your circuit breaker isn’t a good idea, how are you supposed to make sure you’re not wasting energy while you’re away? Try these tips!
Turn down the water heater temperature. Many newer water heaters actually have a “vacation” mode that lowers energy usage. For other units, you can simply use the dial to turn down the temperature a bit.
Unplug anything that is not essential. As long as something is plugged in, it is using energy. While you’re away, you can unplug the coffee maker, toaster, microwave, and anything else that won’t be used while you’re away.
For ALL of Your Residential or Commercial Electrical Needs, Call TriStar Electric!
No matter the job, big or small, the professionals at TriStar Electric will be happy to discuss your project and answer any questions or concerns you may have. We offer free in-home consultations, plus an after-hours and emergency phone line for advice or service!
If you have any questions about our electrical repairs or upgrades, please contact TriStar Electric, Maryland’s premier residential and commercial electrician, by calling 410-799-5791 or 301-384-8880. Or, you can fill out the contact form on our website.
Are you looking for a quality electrician in Maryland, Washington DC, Southern Pennsylvania, or Northern Virginia? Take a look at TriStar Electric’s online reviews and ratings on Angie’s List, Yelp, Google, Facebook, Better Business Bureau of Greater Maryland, and Better Business Bureau Greater Mid-Atlantic. You can also follow us on Facebook, Twitter, Google+, LinkedIn, Pinterest, and YouTube!