The summer’s here, and with it comes all the regular activities associated with the season we love so much. But all those activities come at a cost – especially in terms of energy bills. Fortunately, with a few simple strategies and some creative thinking, you can keep your power bill in check this summer. Here are our top ten tips.
1. Turn off appliances when not in use – This may seem like a no-brainer, but it’s easy to forget. Make sure you turn off lights, TVs, computers and other appliances when not in use – it will save you money.
2. Install energy-efficient lighting – Replace your old light bulbs with LED lights or CFLs (Compact Fluorescent Lights). They last longer and use less energy than regular bulbs, saving you money in the long run.
3. Unplug appliances when not in use – Even when appliances are turned off, they still draw power while they’re plugged in. So unplug anything that’s not being used to save money on your energy bill.
4. Install a programmable thermostat – A programmable thermostat can help you save money by automatically turning off the air conditioning when it’s not needed. This can help you save up to 10% on your energy bill.
5. Take advantage of natural lighting – Open your curtains and blinds during the day to let in natural light, instead of relying on artificial lighting which can be expensive.
6. Keep windows and doors closed – Make sure all windows and doors are closed when air conditioning or heating is running to keep the cool or warm air in.
7. Check for drafts – Make sure your windows and doors are properly sealed against drafts that can let hot or cold air escape, driving up your energy bills even more. If you do find any drafts, you can seal them with caulk or weather stripping.
8. Reduce hot water usage – Reducing the amount of hot water you use will help reduce your energy bill, since heating the water is one of the biggest draws on energy resources. Find ways to reduce your hot water usage, like taking shorter showers and washing clothes in cold water.
9. Use ceiling fans – Ceiling fans are an energy-efficient way to keep cool during the summer months, as they use far less energy than air conditioners. Install a few in your home and make sure you turn them off when you don’t need them.
10. Invest in renewable energy sources – If you’re serious about reducing your power bill, investing in renewable energy sources like solar panels or a wind turbine is the way to go. This may involve significant upfront costs, but over time you’ll save money and help the environment. Call a licensed electrician for more information about the costs and commitments involved with making a switch.
The summertime is meant for fun and relaxation, but that doesn’t mean you have to pay an arm and a leg for energy. Follow these simple tips and you can keep your power bill in check this summer – without sacrificing comfort.