Updated July 26, 2023
Summer is here, and with it comes hot weather. While many people enjoy summer for the warm weather and fun outdoor activities, it can also be a time when your electricity bill goes up. This is because people often use more electricity to cool their homes during the summer. But don’t fret – there are plenty of ways to lower your electricity consumption and save money this summer. Here are a few tips:
1) Installing a Programmable Thermostat
Programmable thermostats allow you to set the temperature for specific times of the day. For example, you can select the temperature to be high during the day when you’re not at home and then have it cool down just before you get home from work. This way, you’re not cooling an empty house, and not coming home to a sauna.
2) Using a Fan Instead of Air Conditioner
Fans use much less electricity than AC units, and they can be just as effective at circulating air and creating a cooling effect. In addition, fans are less likely to cause power fluctuations or outages, making them a more reliable option during heat waves.
3) Giving Your Air Conditioner a Checkup
AC checkups help to ensure that your system is running smoothly and efficiently. A technician will tune up the unit by performing several tasks, including making sure the coils are free of dirt and dust, checking for signs of wear and tear, and making any necessary adjustments. This can help extend your AC’s lifespan and prevent costly repairs down the road. Furthermore, a well-maintained AC is more efficient than a neglected one, meaning that it will use less energy and hopefully save you money on your energy bills.
4) Spending Time Outdoors
Spending time outdoors can be a great way to beat electricity expenses during summer. The fresh air outside can help to keep you and your family cool, especially if you stay in the shade. Additionally, spending time outdoors can help improve your mood and overall well-being. It’s also an excellent opportunity to engage in summer sports, meet new friends or take a dip at the beach. Next time you’re feeling hot and sticky, try not to crank up the air conditioner, but head outside and enjoy the summer weather.
5) Unplugging Devices
One great way to keep energy costs down is to simply unplug devices when they are not in use. Even while turned off, many devices still consume a small amount of power, known as standby power. By unplugging devices, you can prevent this wasted power and lower your energy bill. In addition, unplugging devices can also help avoid overheating, which can damage the device and shorten its lifespan.
6) Planting Trees Around Your House
Trees are nature’s air conditioners, and they can do wonders for keeping your home cool in summer. By strategically planting trees around your home, you can block out the sun’s rays and keep your house cooler during those hot summer days. This means less heat and lower air conditioning costs. In fact, a study by the U.S. Department of Energy confirms that shading your AC with trees can improve energy efficiency by up to 10%.
7) Lowering the Temperature of Your Water Heater
You won’t need as much hot water during the summer months, so there’s no need to keep your water heater set at a high temperature. By turning down the thermostat on your water heater, you can save money and energy. In addition, it’s also a good idea to insulate your water heater to help keep the heat in.
8) Closing Your Doors and Vents
Many people believe that the best way to save on electricity expenses in summer is to open their doors and vents. However, this is actually the wrong thing to do. When you open your doors and vents, all of the cool air that your air conditioner has worked so hard to create escapes. As a result, your air conditioner has to work even harder to maintain a comfortable temperature, which leads to higher energy bills. Instead, you should keep your doors and vents closed in order to trap the cool air inside.
Lower Your Electricity Bill This Summer!
At Beck Electric, Generators & Plumbing, we offer a wide range of electrical services that can help you lower your electricity bill this summer. We can upgrade your electrical system to be more energy-efficient, repair or replace faulty outlets, and install surge protection to prevent damage from power surges. We also offer regular maintenance services to keep your system in top condition. Contact us today to learn more about how we can help you save money on your electricity bill this summer.
