Before you leave on vacation, take a few minutes to turn off and unplug equipment. You’ll save energy and avoid safety hazards. You might want to read your meter before you leave and when you return — it’s a good way to spot any hidden energy wasters.

What to unplug, turn off or turn down before leaving
Lights
Turn off all lights except for one or two fitted with compact fluorescent bulbs. Put these lights on timers that can be set to random patterns to discourage potential prowlers. Photo sensors or motion detectors are good ideas for outdoor lights.

Air conditioning
Turn it off. Close window coverings to help keep heat from building up in your home while you’re away.

Heating
Turn it off. (If it’s very cold outside, however, and you’re worried about pipes freezing, let your faucets drip and just lower your heat to 55 degrees instead of turning it off completely.)

Water heater
Turn off your water heater at the electric breaker panel if you are going to be away for more than a few days. If it is a natural gas water heater, turn it down but not off.

Refrigerator
If you’re leaving on an extended trip of a month or more, you might want to empty, clean and unplug your refrigerator to save energy. Prop the door open to prevent odors.

Other appliances
Many appliances draw energy even when they’re turned off. So, unplug your television, VCR/DVD player, stereo computer, washer and other appliances. You may need to reset the clock on VCR/DVD players or clock radios when you return. For safety’s sake, don’t overlook small appliances that are best left unplugged when unattended — items like toasters, coffee makers, irons, curling irons, hair dryers and electric tools.