Free and No Sweat Ways to Lower Your Summer Energy Costs

If you’ve gotten your first warmer weather utility bill, chances are you’ve gasped a little. We’re all running our air conditioners and the kids are home on summer break. Our utilities are experiencing a strain during these warmer months. But how do you cut back without having to set the thermostat to 85 degrees or purchase an expensive energy saving gadget?

Take a look through these tips. There are plenty of ways to save a little cash on your next utility bill that doesn’t involve sweating it out or spending big on energy upgrades this summer.

Check Your Vents

Some people believe that closing your air vents will save money on your electricity bill. Closed air vents mean that the AC won’t run in selective rooms, right? Wrong. Open up the vents around your house. The unit won’t have to work as hard and your bill will reflect it.

Smart Settings

If no one is home during the day, set your thermostat to run a little warmer during the workdays. Most homes have smart thermostats that can do this job for you. If not, turn it up a little each day. But beware, completely turning off your AC during the day just means the unit will work twice as hard when you turn it back on at night.

Electronic Electricity Hogs

You may not realize it, but your occasionally used electronic devices can really add to your bill. Gaming consoles are some of the biggest culprits. Plug your gaming systems into a power strip that is easily turned off. Then, when you aren’t home or playing with your devices, you can unplug them to save some extra green.

Control the Flow

Everyone knows that heat rises. Why not help it along? Set your fans to turn counter-clockwise. This will encourage the hot air upwards and the cool air to stay where it belongs. Plus, using ceiling fans is a great way to help save on air conditioning bills.

Launder at Night

Try doing your laundry at night when the sun is down. Your dryer works against the air conditioning causing an electrical tug-of-war. Since we’re sure you don’t want to pay for this rousing game, try waiting until it cools down to run your washer and dryer.

Give these a try and see if they make an impact during these warmer months. We wish you a happy and fun summer filled with lower energy bills and higher amounts of fun! 

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