How to Lower Your Electric Bill in the Summer

Electric bills can be surprisingly high during the summer months. And while you can’t just switch the AC off, there are things you can do to lower your power bill.

In this article, we’ll cover 7 practical tips for keeping that electric bill reasonable … without making you feel like you live in Death Valley.

7 Ways to Lower Your Energy Bill

Everyone wants a lower energy bill—especially during the hottest months. Here are 7 ways you can bring your electricity costs down this summer.

1. Set the Thermostat a Little Higher

You absolutely don’t need to suffer through the summer heat, but you also don’t need to make your home arctic cold.

Try setting your thermostat a little higher. Even a couple of degrees can make a big difference in your electric bill. You’ll use less energy, and the savings will quickly add up.

Or, if you don’t mind spending a little money, you could invest in a smart thermostat. Smart thermostats will automatically adjust the inside temperature based on time of day and other factors.

2. Keep Windows Closed On Hot Days

Most people know to keep the windows closed while the air conditioner is on. But sometimes a breeze is nice, too. And what if it’s a scorcher and you don’t have AC?

If it’s hotter outside than it is inside, you want to keep it that way.

Keep the windows closed so that you don’t let the outside air heat up the inside air. The same goes for doors.

3. Keep the Air Circulating Inside

Some people open their windows in an effort to get the air moving. This is understandable. Circulating air tends to feel cooler than still air.

But opening a window also lets the hotter air in.

Instead of opening a window or a door on a hot day, try turning on a fan. If you don’t have a ceiling fan, consider a modest investment in some oscillating fans.

For extra cooling, place a bowl of ice water in front of table fans.

4. Block Out the Sun

When the sun beats down into your home, it can create some unbearable hot spots. Blackout curtains or darkening blinds can do a lot to keep your home cooler.

Just close the curtain or blinds before the sun starts streaming in.

If the sun is particularly bad for you, you may want to consider tinted windows. Tinted windows can help make your home more energy-efficient. If you don’t want a permanent tint, there are removable window tint options available, as well.

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5. Replace Air Filters Regularly

Most people don’t think about air conditioner maintenance. Simply cleaning or changing the filter in your air conditioner, however, will keep your unit performing at its best.

A clean filter means your air conditioner will move air more quickly and more easily. That makes it possible for your AC to cool your home more effectively.

And that gives you more bang for your electricity buck.

6. Upgrade to an Energy-Efficient AC

There’s a reason energy-efficient appliances are popular.

Apart from helping decrease your carbon footprint, they’re designed to use less electricity—without sacrificing performance. That can mean significant savings on your energy bills.

Coupled with a smart thermostat, a more energy-efficient AC unit could keep your home cool and comfortable at all times.

7. Ask for an Energy Audit

An energy audit will break down how the energy is flowing in your home and help identify ways to use less energy.

Some energy companies will do them—sometimes even for free.

An energy audit may reveal areas that need to be better weatherproofed. Once you have the results, you can simply work through the most cost-effective suggestions first. That way, you lower your energy bill without breaking the bank in the process.

Wrapping Up

Some of these suggestions can be put to work right now. Some will take a little planning. Some are totally free. And some require an upfront investment for long-term savings.

We recommend that you only make the changes you’re comfortable making.

And, of course, we want you to stay cool and hydrated this summer. Summer heat can be dangerous, so always prioritize your health and safety over saving a few bucks!

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