Tips to Lower Your Summer Utility Bill
As temperatures rise, unfortunately, so do utility bills. Learn tips to help you lower your summer utility bill and save money.
It's essential to be mindful of how we use energy to stay cool and comfortable without overspending. By learning a few strategies and making small changes around the house, you can effectively lower your summer utility bill and keep more money in your pocket.
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Close the blinds
One way to keep your residence cool during the summer is to close your blinds and curtains during the heat of the day. The lack of sunlight will keep your interior from heating up! -
Use appliances sparingly
Use ovens, dishwashers, and other heat-producing appliances during the late evening or early morning when the outside temperature is coolest.
Tip: Run only full loads in the dishwasher and washing machine, and use cold water as much as possible. -
Cook outside
Keep your house cool by cooking outside on a grill. This will ensure your air conditioning isn’t working harder than necessary on hot days. Enjoy a summer evening by grilling and indulging in some cold popsicles or ice cream! -
Change the temperature
To save money on your utility bill, turn your water heater down to the warm setting, or to 120 degrees. Try increasing the temperature on your thermostat before leaving your house or apartment. Investing in a smart thermostat is a great way to keep your house cool while you’re home, and save money when you’re gone. -
Dress for the heat
Wear comfortable and loose-fitting clothing to stay cool throughout the day, instead of making your air conditioner work overtime. Make sure your summer wardrobe avoids synthetic fabrics like nylon and polyester, as they can make you hotter by trapping heat. Instead, choose breathable, lightweight materials like linen, cotton, and jersey. -
Break out the fan
Although it may seem counterproductive to use electric fans, they can be more cost-effective at keeping your cool air circulating than cranking your AC to a low temperature. Use more fans, including stationary and overhead ones. You can also open your windows on cool summer evenings in place of your air conditioning. If you place your fan in a window or door during a cooler morning or evening, it can help suck in the cool air to your house! -
Replace your lights
If you have been using standard light bulbs, consider switching to compact fluorescent light bulbs (CFLs). Although these bulbs are more expensive than standard ones, they use 75 percent less power, and last up to six times longer than the latter. Replacing two or three of your most used lights in your house, can amount to a savings of $40 per light bulb over the course of its lifetime.
With these tips, you can work to avoid seeing your utility bill soar this summer.
