Summers are hot, especially in the south. Electric bills skyrocket between May and September as well all try to beat the heat. But they don’t have to. We gathered some of our favorite tips and tricks for tricking your electric bill (and staying cool) this summer. Let’s dive in.
1. Adjust your thermostat
This is the number one and easiest tip in our book. We know some of you like your house cold, but the best way to keep your bill down is keeping that temp up.
Adjust your thermostat to the temperature that keeps your space just cool enough. When you leave to go to work or the grocery store or dinner with friends, turn up the dial to above 75 degrees. It will save more than you think in the long run.
2. Check your AC filters
When was the last time you checked your AC filter? It might be time for a change. Swapping your filter will help air flow properly, meaning less energy is required to cool your space. We recommend doing this every 60 days.
3. Unplug your devices
Eliminate the standby energy used by simply unplugging devices, power strips, chargers and more when they aren’t in use.
4. Adjust your fans
Bump up that AC and turn on the fans. Fans can keep you cool in the summer without racking up a big bill. Just make sure your fan is rotating the proper direction to circulate cool air. Fans should be set to rotate counterclockwise to push down cool air.
5. Lower the water heater temp
Do you really need an extra hot shower during the summer? Lower the temperature on your water heater to save money and energy.
6. Wash with cold water
Doing larger loads of laundry on a cold wash will help save on energy and money. Wait until you have a full load of laundry to start the machine. Plus, who wants to waste summer days on loads of laundry?
7. Close those vents
Have a few rooms that you don’t use as often or only use at night? Close the AC vents and doors in those rooms to conserve energy. When you use the room, open the vent again. Just don’t forget to close it back when you are done.
8. Block the sunlight
Use blinds and curtains during peak sunlight hours to block direct sunlight and keep your rooms from overheating (and kicking on your AC unit). This will save energy, keep rooms cool and provide a great nap area. Another option is to place plants near windows to absorb and partially block sunlight. Many plants also help cool your space, too.
9. Open windows at night
If you live in an area that has cool nights, turn off the AC and open the windows. This combined with a fan on high might be enough to keep you cool during the night and lower your electric costs.
10. Avoid peak electricity hours
Utility companies often raise rates during hours that are busier than others. Try waiting to run the dishwasher or washing machine until after 11 AM or before 7 PM.
11. Look for the Energy Star
When shopping for new appliances, look for ones with the Energy Star. These options meet specific energy-saving criteria so you can save on energy and money in the long run.
Don’t spend extra money on your electric bill this summer. Save with these tips.
