Energy Savings Tips for the Summer

Check out some of our tips for saving money on home air conditioning:

  • Maintain your air conditioner. Be sure to have your AC unit serviced at the start of each summer in order to keep it running up to par. I know from experience that it would be bad to have it give out right in the middle of the heat. Also, change your filters regularly.
  • Install a programmable thermostat. This is one of the easiest ways to start saving money right away on your cooling costs. Setting a thermostat to warmer while you're not at home can help cut your energy bill significantly.
  • Use trees to shade your home Never underestimate the value of a good tree or shrub to provide shade over parts of your home, especially windows facing direct sunlight. If you are not able to do this, consider installing awnings over the windows, as they will help keep as much heat from entering your home.
  • Close the leaks. There are no doubt air leaks all around the house. This could be from the weather stripping around a doorway or a window, as well as sealed places where utilities enter the home. Keep all the cool air inside!
  • Avoid generating heat inside. There are a variety of things that add heat to your living space, such as ovens, dryers, dishwashers, computers and more. Use air dry settings on your dishwasher, and hibernate your computer if it is not in use. In addition, turn off lights in rooms that are not being used, and grill outside if you want to cook. All of these things can significantly reduce cooling costs.
  • Use fans. While fans won't lower the temperature of a room, they blow heat away from you. This means that you can set the thermostat a couple of ticks warmer, which will save you money in the long run. Fans cost less to operate than your AC unit, so utilize them as much as possible.
  • Switch electricity providers. If you signed up for your electricity rate a while back, you are probably out of contract with your current provider and eligible to switch for a lower rate. Don't get stuck paying last year's electricity rates if rates have dropped by several cents this year. You could save hundreds of dollars over the summer just by shopping around. Enter your address on WhiteFence to start saving on electricity and see your options!

Hopefully these energy saving tips help you to save money on energy this summer!