How to Save on Energy Bills in the Summer

Conserving energy in the heat summer is easy. Follow a few simple guidelines to help trim your energy bills in the summer months. Anything you can do to give your air conditioner and other appliances a break will help.

Turn Down Your Water Heater

Although water heaters can be turned up to 140 degrees F, most appliances only require about 120 degrees. Ask your plumber if you are unsure about what setting your hot water heater should be. Your water heater will work less, and it won’t be building up additional heat in this already hot season.

Dry Laundry Outside

Make use of the summer sun by drying clean clothes outside on a clothesline. Use towels several times before washing. Beach towels especially can be very heavy and require a lot of energy to wash and dry. Also, use cold water whenever possible when washing clothes.

Unplug Appliances and Electronics

Unplug appliances from the wall when not using them, especially when gone for the weekend or on vacation. Using a power strip for your entertainment system or around your desk will make it simple to turn off everything quickly and simply; just flip the switch. Make a list in your head of all the electronics and appliances that are unnecessarily plugged in--the coffee maker, hair dryer, cell phone that was done charging hours ago, washer and dryer, etc. Power trickles to all these appliances, even if they’re switched off. Turning OFF the computer instead of just allowing it to go sleep will also help you to use less energy.

Conserve Water

For one week, add up all the time the family spends in the shower. Use this information to set a practical shower time goal for each person. Today’s low flow showerheads supply excellent water pressure and a variety of designs, and they’re east and inexpensive to install. For a bit more money, install low flow or dual flush toilets. You can also save money on water by placing large barrels out to collect rain water for the garden.

Plant Trees

Planting trees on the south facing, sunny side of your house can really make a difference cooling in down your house in the summer. The cooler your house stays, the less your air conditioner needs to work. The trees will also help to protect from cold winds in the winter.

Use Weather Stripping and Window Shades

Weather stripping around your doors and windows is relatively cheap and helps to seal up the cracks, keeping cool air confined in your home. Window shades help to reflect the sun away from your home.

Insulate Your Attic

The hot sun beating down on your roof can heat your house from the top down, like a broiler. Proper insulation in your attic prevents this, and keeps your cooled air in the living spaces where it belongs.