As the summer heat begins to filter into our daily forecast, many of us are reaching for the air conditioner control and cranking down the heat in our homes. However, with increased air conditioning comes a heftier power bill. It’s a common misconception that to lower the power bill, we must endure a warmer household. But, sacrificing your comfort isn’t the sole solution to curbing your energy spend. Happily, effective alternatives can minimize your energy usage and lower your bills without turning your home into a furnace. Here are some tips to assist you in saving on your summer utility bills.
CAUTION WITH ENERGY CONSUMING APPLIANCES
Many people mistakenly believe that a switched-off appliance means zero energy consumption. However, many appliances and gadgets like those with a persistent light or clock continue to consume energy as long as they are plugged in. Similarly, chargers for devices such as phones and computers use energy even when not actively charging. To overcome this issue, you have options: either unplug appliances when not in use, although a bit inconvenient, or use surge protectors and wall-switch-operated outlets, which stop power supply when switched-off.
INVEST IN A PROGRAMMABLE THERMOSTAT
Installing a programmable thermostat, if you haven’t got one already, is a great investment. Convenient and economical, it can contribute meaningful savings annually. You can program it to adjust temperature based on your absence from home for extended periods.
BE SMART ABOUT YOUR WATER-USING APPLIANCES
Using your dishwasher or washing machine judiciously can significantly save energy and money. Given their high hot water consumption, constant usage can be quite expensive. Only start your washer with full loads and consider washing in cold water. Drying clothes traditionally on a line or racks can also lower energy consumption. With the dishwasher, starting it fully loaded and opting to hand-dry is another way to conserve energy.
OPEN WINDOWS AT OPTIMAL TIMES
While it’s inevitable you’ll have to rely on your air conditioner at times, a simple way to reduce its use is by encouraging natural ventilation. Opening windows during the cooler parts of the day, usually mornings and evenings, can lessen AC dependence.
UTILIZE YOUR FANS
Using fans in your home is another effective way to reduce your air conditioner’s energy consumption. Fans help distribute air evenly, providing a cooler environment. Even when it isn’t exceptionally cold, fans can make a significant difference.
LIGHT YOUR HOME WISELY
Effective lighting plays a part in reducing energy consumption, not only during summer but year-round. Investing in energy-efficient products, with the wide range now available thanks to advancing technology, can cut power usage. And, as always, ensure lights are switched off when not in use or when rooms are unoccupied.
ON HOT SPOTS IN YOUR HOME
Certain spaces in your house, such as attics or upstairs rooms, may consume more energy due to their tendency to get hotter as heat rises or lack of proper insulation. Installing fans in these rooms and keeping them operational will keep your air conditioner from overworking. Closing doors and vents to these rooms when not in use can further save energy.
AVOID USING YOUR OVEN AND STOVE
While this might seem an unusual tip, considering we need to eat, it’s worth considering. Opt for other, energy-efficient cooking methods like grilling or preparing salads and cold dishes. As it’s summer, you might not miss hot food as much.
And remember, lowering your summer utility bills need not be a taxing task or turn your home into an uncomfortable space. Rather, adopting a few easy tips can make a substantial difference to your energy bills and keep your home comfortable throughout the season. Have you tried some of these energy-saving tips yet? If so, did you notice a difference in your summer utility bills? Let us know!
