Save Energy This Summer
If you shudder at the thought of opening your electric bill during the summer months, you’re sure to be in the mood for a few great tips for saving energy this summer. It’s easier than you think to cut some corners — and some dollars — from your energy expenses during the warmer months. We’ve gathered together a few of our favorite ideas to help you trim your bills while keeping your cool.
Thermostat Tricks
One of the best ways to reduce your electric bill during the summer is to narrow the gap between your inside temperature and the great outdoors. Don’t sacrifice comfort — it’s no fun to walk into an 80-degree room — but keeping your thermostat as high as you reasonably can will reduce both the shock of rapid temperature change and your cooling costs.
Make sure you invest in a programmable or smart thermostat. This handy device allows you to keep your home warmer when you’re away at work or on vacation and then cool things down again just before you return. You can also set schedules that maximize energy savings. ENERGY STAR provides helpful guidance on choosing the right thermostat here.
Finally, resist the temptation to turn your thermostat lower than usual when your home feels overly warm. Your house won’t cool any faster, and you’ll likely drive up your electric bill in the process.
Work With the Weather
When nighttime temperatures drop to a comfortable level, turn off your air conditioning and open your windows. In the morning, close the windows and cover them with curtains or blinds to block sunlight and heat. When you turn the air back on, set it at a higher temperature than you would use when you’re home.
Weather stripping and caulking also play a major role in keeping hot air out. Properly sealing doors and windows prevents cooled air from escaping and helps your HVAC system work more efficiently. The U.S. Department of Energy offers additional tips on sealing air leaks here.
Be Your Own Biggest Fan
Fans should be used strategically. Only run them while people are in the room — fans cool people, not spaces. When used alongside air conditioning, fans can allow you to raise the thermostat by up to four degrees without sacrificing comfort.
Be sure to use exhaust fans in bathrooms and laundry rooms, as they remove excess heat and humidity. These fans should always vent outdoors rather than into an attic.
Watch Your Lighting and Appliances
Lamps, televisions, and appliances that generate heat should not be placed near thermostats. The added warmth can cause your cooling system to run longer than necessary.
During the summer, try cooking methods that generate less heat, such as microwaves, slow cookers, stovetops, or outdoor grilling. Wash dishes and clothes only with full loads, and consider air-drying whenever possible. Reducing hot water use by opting for quick, cool showers instead of hot baths can also lower energy costs.
Lighting choices matter too. Only a small portion of the electricity used by incandescent bulbs produces light — most of it becomes heat. Switching to halogen incandescent bulbs, compact fluorescent lamps (CFLs), or light-emitting diodes (LEDs) can significantly reduce heat and energy usage. ENERGY STAR provides helpful lighting guidance here.
Maintain to Gain
Regular HVAC maintenance helps your system operate at peak efficiency. A professional cleaning and inspection can improve performance and extend the life of your unit. Keep air registers clean and free of dust buildup to ensure proper airflow throughout your home.
A few small changes can add up to meaningful savings — leaving more room in your budget for summer treats like icy drinks or your favorite ice cream. For more energy-saving tips and information about energy-efficient features in our homes, visit the Ernest Homes Blog or explore our energy-conscious floor plans. Have questions? Reach out anytime through our Contact Us page.
