How to Cut Costs at Home While You’re Away This Summer

Before you head off on holiday or spend a few days away from home this summer, it’s worth taking a little time to check your home is not using more energy than it needs to.

With the energy price cap having risen again this July, and heatwaves placing extra pressure on households across the UK, even small changes can make a difference.

A quick check before you leave can help reduce wasted energy, lower the risk of problems while you’re away and give you extra peace of mind.

Energy saving checks before you leave home

Here are LEAP’s simple but effective tips to help you keep costs down, protect your home and stay energy efficient this summer.

Unplug unnecessary appliances and devices

Many everyday items continue to use electricity when they are left on standby or plugged in. Chargers, computers, TVs, games consoles and kitchen appliances can all add to your energy use, even when nobody is home.

Before you leave, unplug anything that does not need to stay on. This can help reduce wasted energy and may also lower the risk of electrical faults while your home is empty.

Check your fridge and freezer

If your fridge or freezer is empty, you may be able to switch it off completely while you are away. Make sure it is cleaned, dried and left slightly open to avoid unpleasant smells.

If you are leaving food inside, keep the appliance switched on and avoid changing it to an unsafe setting, especially during hot weather. A full freezer will usually stay cold more efficiently than an empty one, so check what needs to be used, moved or safely stored before you go.

Programme timed appliances

Take a few minutes to check any timers before you leave. Heating, hot water, lights, smart plugs and other connected appliances should be programmed for when you actually need them.

During the summer, many homes will not need heating at all. If you have smart controls, check your settings in advance so you are not heating water, running lights or powering appliances unnecessarily while you are away.

Switch off hot water where you can

If you are going away for more than a couple of days, switching off your hot water system can help save energy. Just make sure you know how to turn it back on safely when you return.

It may also be worth turning off your water supply, particularly if you will be away for a longer period. This can help reduce the risk of leaks causing damage while nobody is home.

Turn off heating, fans and portable cooling devices

In a heatwave, it can be tempting to leave fans or portable cooling devices running, but this can waste energy if nobody is there to benefit from them.

Switch off fans, portable air conditioners, heaters and radiators before you leave. If you are worried about your home becoming too hot, close curtains or blinds in sunny rooms before setting off to help keep indoor temperatures lower.

Switch off lights and entertainment devices

Check every room before you go. Lights, TVs, speakers and entertainment systems should all be switched off, and unplugged where possible.

If you like to leave lights on for security, consider using a timer instead. This can make your home look occupied without leaving lights on all day and night.

Use security lighting efficiently

Outdoor lights, doorbell cameras and security systems can offer reassurance while you are away. However, they do not all need to run constantly.

Use timers, motion sensors or app settings where available, so security lighting only comes on when needed. This helps keep your home protected without adding unnecessary costs to your bill.

Secure outdoor electrical items

Before leaving, check outside sockets, garden lights, water features and electrical tools. Switch off and unplug anything that does not need to remain in use.

Make sure outdoor cables are safely stored and that sockets have weatherproof covers. This is especially important during summer storms, which can sometimes follow periods of very hot weather.

A few extra tips for security and safety

Make sure all windows and doors are properly locked before you leave. If possible, leave a key with a trusted neighbour, friend or family member who can check on your property if needed.

Check that gates, sheds and garden access points are secure, and avoid leaving valuables visible through windows. You may also want to use a monitored alarm, smart doorbell or other remote security system for added reassurance.

By taking these simple steps, you can enjoy your time away knowing your home is safer, more secure and using energy more efficiently. With energy costs still a concern for many households, a few minutes of preparation can help you avoid unnecessary waste and save money this summer.

For further support, a LEAP energy advice call or home visit can help you find practical ways to reduce energy use at home. LEAP offers free, tailored energy advice to eligible households, helping you stay in control of your bills all year round.