Summer is a time for fun in the sun, but it can also be a time when your energy bills skyrocket.
With heat, air conditioning becomes a necessity, and this can lead to high energy bills.
However, some steps can be taken to save on your summer energy bill without sacrificing comfort.
10 Steps To Save On Your Summer Energy Bill
By following these 10 steps, homeowners can reduce their energy consumption and save money on their summer energy bills.
From adjusting the thermostat to using natural light, these tips are easy to implement and can make a big difference in energy usage.
Whether you’re looking to save money or reduce your carbon footprint, these tips can help you achieve your goals. So, without further ado, let’s dive into the 10 steps to save on your summer energy bill.
Step 1: Adjust the Thermostat
One of the easiest ways to save on your summer energy bill is to adjust your thermostat.
By raising the temperature a few degrees, you can significantly reduce your energy usage and save money.
According to the U.S. Department of Energy, you can save up to 10% per year on your energy bill by turning your thermostat back 7-10 degrees Fahrenheit for 8 hours a day.
If you have a programmable thermostat, you can set it to automatically adjust the temperature when you’re not home or when you’re sleeping.
This way, you don’t have to remember to adjust the temperature yourself. You can also set it to gradually adjust the temperature over a period of time, so you don’t feel the sudden temperature change.
If you don’t have a programmable thermostat, consider investing in one. They are relatively inexpensive and can save you money in the long run.
Alternatively, you can manually adjust the temperature when you leave the house or go to bed.
Read more about Thermostats here
Step 2: Use Fans Instead of Air Conditioning
During the summer months, air conditioning can consume a significant amount of energy, which can lead to higher energy bills.
One way to reduce energy consumption is to use fans instead of air conditioning. Fans use much less energy than air conditioning and can still provide a comfortable indoor temperature.
There are several types of fans available, including ceiling fans, floor fans, and table fans.
Ceiling fans are a great option for larger rooms, as they can circulate air throughout the entire space.
Floor fans and table fans are ideal for smaller rooms or personal use, as they can be easily moved from one room to another.
It’s important to note that fans do not cool the air, but rather create a wind-chill effect that makes you feel cooler.
To maximize the effectiveness of fans, it’s recommended to use them in conjunction with other cooling methods, such as keeping windows and doors open to allow for cross-ventilation.
Overall, using fans instead of air conditioning can be an effective way to save on your summer energy bill while still maintaining a comfortable indoor temperature.
Step 3: Keep the Blinds Closed
One of the easiest ways to reduce the amount of heat entering your home during the summer is to keep your blinds closed.
This simple step can make a significant difference in your energy bill. When sunlight enters your home, it heats the air inside, causing your air conditioning to work harder to maintain a comfortable temperature.
By keeping your blinds closed during the hottest parts of the day, you can block out the sun’s rays and prevent your home from heating up.
This will reduce the workload on your air conditioner and help you save on your energy bill.
Another benefit of keeping your blinds closed is that they can protect your furniture and other belongings from fading due to exposure to sunlight.
Sunlight can cause colors to fade and weaken fabrics over time. By keeping your blinds closed, you can help preserve your belongings and extend their lifespan.
To maximize the benefits of keeping your blinds closed, consider investing in blackout curtains or shades.
These products are designed to block out sunlight and can provide additional insulation for your home.
They can be especially effective in rooms that receive a lot of direct sunlight, such as south-facing rooms.
Step 4: Use Energy-Efficient Light Bulbs
One of the easiest ways to save on your summer energy bill is to replace your traditional incandescent light bulbs with energy-efficient options.
Energy-efficient bulbs use less energy and last longer than traditional bulbs. Here are a few options to consider:
- LED bulbs: These bulbs are the most energy-efficient option and can last up to 25 times longer than traditional bulbs. They also produce less heat, which can help keep your home cooler in the summer.
- CFL bulbs: These bulbs use about 75% less energy than traditional bulbs and can last up to 10 times longer. However, they do contain small amounts of mercury and should be recycled properly.
- Halogen incandescent bulbs: These bulbs use about 25% less energy than traditional bulbs and can last up to 3 times longer. However, they are not as energy-efficient as LED or CFL bulbs.
When shopping for energy-efficient bulbs, look for the ENERGY STAR label. This label indicates that the bulb meets strict energy efficiency guidelines set by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency.
By replacing your traditional bulbs with energy-efficient options, you can save up to $75 per year on your energy bill.
Plus, you’ll be doing your part to reduce your carbon footprint and protect the environment.
Step 5: Unplug Electronics When Not in Use
One of the easiest ways to save on your summer energy bill is to unplug electronics when they are not in use.
Many electronics continue to use energy even when they are turned off, which can add up over time. By unplugging electronics, you can save energy and money.
Some electronics, such as televisions and computers, use more energy than others. By unplugging these devices, you can save even more energy.
You can also use power strips to easily turn off multiple electronics at once.
It’s important to note that some electronics, such as cable and satellite boxes, need to stay plugged in to receive updates and maintain their settings.
However, you can still save energy by using a power strip to turn off other electronics that are connected to the same outlet.
Overall, unplugging electronics when they are not in use is a simple and effective way to save on your summer energy bill.
By making this small change, you can reduce your energy consumption and lower your monthly expenses.
Step 6: Use the Grill Instead of the Oven
Grilling is a great way to save energy during the summer months. Instead of using your oven, which can heat up your home and make your air conditioner work harder, use your outdoor grill to cook your meals.
Not only will this save energy, but it will also give your food a delicious, smoky flavor.
When grilling, it’s important to use the right techniques to ensure that your food cooks evenly and thoroughly.
Make sure to preheat your grill before adding your food, and keep the lid closed as much as possible to maintain a consistent temperature.
You can also use a meat thermometer to ensure that your food is cooked to the appropriate temperature.
In addition to saving energy, grilling can also be a fun and social activity. Invite friends and family over for a backyard barbecue, and enjoy the warm weather and delicious food together.
Step 7: Do Laundry and Dishes at Night
One way to save on your summer energy bill is to do your laundry and dishes at night. This is because energy rates are typically lower during off-peak hours, which are usually at night.
By doing your laundry and dishes during these hours, you can take advantage of these lower rates and save money on your energy bill.
In addition to saving money, doing your laundry and dishes at night can also help reduce the strain on the power grid during peak hours.
This can help prevent power outages and other issues that can occur when electricity demand is high.
To make the most of this energy-saving tip, consider using a delay-start feature on your washing machine and dishwasher.
This will allow you to set your appliances to run during off-peak hours without having to stay up late to start them.
Another way to save energy when doing laundry is to use cold water whenever possible.
This can help reduce the amount of energy needed to heat the water, which can result in significant energy savings over time.
Additionally, consider air-drying your clothes instead of using a dryer. This can help save even more energy and money on your energy bill.
Step 8: Plant Trees and Shrubs for Shade
One of the most effective ways to reduce your summer energy bill is by planting trees and shrubs that provide shade to your home.
Trees and shrubs can block the sun’s rays from hitting your home, which can help keep your home cooler and reduce the need for air conditioning.
When selecting trees and shrubs, it’s important to choose ones that are appropriate for your climate and the amount of space you have.
Large deciduous trees, such as oak and maple trees, are great for providing shade in the summer and allowing sunlight to penetrate through in the winter when they lose their leaves.
Evergreen trees, such as pine and spruce trees, can also provide shade year-round.
In addition to reducing your energy bill, planting trees and shrubs can also increase the value of your home and improve the overall appearance of your yard.
When planting, be sure to consider the mature size of the tree or shrub and its proximity to your home and other structures.
Overall, planting trees and shrubs for shade is a simple and effective way to reduce your summer energy bill while also improving the look and value of your home.
Step 9: Seal Air Leaks
One of the biggest culprits of energy waste in the summer is air leaks. These leaks can let cool air escape from your home, causing your air conditioner to work harder than it needs to.
Sealing air leaks is an easy and effective way to save money on your summer energy bill.
Start by checking for leaks around windows and doors. You can use weatherstripping or caulking to seal any gaps. If you have a fireplace, make sure the damper is closed when it’s not in use. You can also use foam insulation to seal any gaps around pipes or electrical wires that enter or exit your home.
Another common area for air leaks is in your ductwork. Make sure your ducts are properly sealed and insulated to prevent air from escaping. You can also have a professional inspect your ductwork to ensure it’s in good condition.
Sealing air leaks not only saves you money on your energy bill but also makes your home more comfortable by keeping cool air inside. It’s a simple and effective step that anyone can take to reduce their energy usage in the summer.
Step 10: Get a Professional Energy Audit
One of the best ways to save on your summer energy bill is to get a professional energy audit.
This will help you identify areas where your home is losing energy and give you specific recommendations on how to fix those issues.
During an energy audit, a professional will inspect your home and look for areas where energy is being wasted.
This could include things like air leaks, inadequate insulation, or outdated appliances.
They will also use specialized equipment to measure your home’s energy usage and identify areas where you could be more efficient.
Based on their findings, the energy auditor will provide you with a detailed report outlining specific steps you can take to reduce your energy usage and save money on your summer energy bill.
This could include things like sealing air leaks, adding insulation, upgrading to more energy-efficient appliances, or installing a programmable thermostat.
While there is a cost associated with getting a professional energy audit, the savings you’ll see on your energy bill over time can more than makeup for it.
Plus, many utility companies offer rebates or other incentives for homeowners who get an energy audit and make energy-efficient upgrades to their homes.
