Don’t worry; we’re not going to suggest you keep your temperature a little warmer this summer. We know you don’t want to hear that and you won’t do it anyway! But, there are a few surprising things you can do in the heat of summer that will help reduce your electric bills and still stay cool. These tips will help you reduce the hidden costs that drive up your electric bill.
Use Window Coverings To Your Advantage
Closing the curtains and lowering the blinds on the sunny side of your house will help keep your home cooler this summer. If you want to save your view, try applying window film to the glass. You can choose to apply the films yourself or hire a professional to apply it. Either way, this will help reduce radiant heat while still allowing you to see through the windows.
Get An Annual Air Conditioning Checkup
Not surprisingly, your house’s biggest electricity drain is the air conditioner, accounting for as much as half of your energy bill. We suggest you get your air conditioning unit checked out and cleaned to make sure the unit is running at its highest efficiency.
Change Your Air Conditioning Filters
For best energy efficiency, it’s best to change the filters of your air conditioner monthly.
Get the Right Size Air Conditioner
Be sure your air conditioner is the right size for the room. According to the Department of Energy, an air conditioning unit that’s too big will cause uncomfortable temperature fluctuations, higher electric bills, reduced efficiency, and excessive wear and tear.
Place You Window Air Conditioning Unit Wisely
The U.S. Department of Energy recommends that window air conditioners be placed toward the center of the room on the shady side of the house.
Unplug Electric Devices
While your device may be turned off, power may still be on if it is plugged in. Plug small appliances, such as a charger, razor or radio into a power strip then just turn off the switch when you aren’t using them.