5 Low-Cost Ways to Save on Your Electricity Bills This Summer
June 4, 2020
Keeping your home cool this summer doesn’t have to be expensive. Here are some steps you can take — for minimal effort and cost — to reduce your energy bills while also helping to save the planet.
1. Temperature
The suggested thermostat setting in the summer is no lower than 78°F to 80°F. For every degree the thermostat is raised, 4% to 8% can be saved on cooling costs. Adjusting the temperature before you leave your house is an easy place to start saving on electricity. You may even want to invest in a programmable thermostat that allows you to set a schedule based on when you are or are not home.
2. Insulation
Identify where the flow of air may be leaking out of your home and apply caulk or weather stripping to eliminate the leak. This is a cost-effective way to reduce cooling costs while also maximizing the air conditioning system’s function.
3. Ceiling fan
A ceiling fan can cool a room by around four degrees, which can keep your air conditioning system from working as hard. When you reduce the use of air conditioning, you also help our environment by reducing the amount of CO2 released into the atmosphere.
4. Natural ventilation
Take advantage of evening breezes to help cool off the house. Open windows to reduce electricity usage.
5. Blinds and drapes
During sunny days, close blinds and draperies on windows receiving direct sunlight. Installing affordable blinds can reduce heat gain by up to 45% while drapes can reduce heat gain by 33%.
Don’t let expensive utility bills ruin your summer. Follow these easy steps to save money and the environment.
Tags: Savings, Home Ownership, Tips and Tricks