Staying cool is key to enjoying the summer months, but doing it while saving money… that’s pure bliss.
Get ready for the summer should be exciting, full sunshine and warm weather without worrying about the feeling the pinch of bills on your wallet. Let’s be honest, it’s a sinking feeling to come home and find an exorbitant utility bill in the mail.
According to a report from the U.S. Energy Information Administration in 2016, the average utility bill spikes up an average of $150 per month during the summer when compared earlier months like March or April.
Here are 6 ways or tips you can decrease your utility bills this summer:
- Turn it down. Adjust your thermostat by just one degree. Pretty easy, right? By doing this simple twist of the wrist or push of a button, you can save an average of five-percent on your utility bill. You can turn down your thermostat right before bed, open a window and let in a cool breeze while you sleep.
- Close it up. We all like summer breezes, but keep your windows shut while you run your air conditioner. Closing your windows keeps the hot air out and the cool air inside. Close off areas of your house that you don’t use. If you’re never in that guest bedroom or office, shut the vents and don’t waste your money cooling those rooms. You should also limit using kitchen and bathroom fans because they are like windows and make the air conditioner work harder. Instead, consider grilling outside. With our 360 days of sunshine in Colorado, it’s a great excuse to spend a little more time outside.
- Keep it Clean. Make sure the filter in your air conditioning unit is clean. Dust and debris can clog the air filter and keep it from running efficiently. As a general rule of thumb, it’s a good idea to change your air filter at least once a month. In doing so, you can have peace of mind knowing your family will be breathing in clean, cool air without dust and toxins.
- Tech it Up. If you’re a homeowner or have the ability to make modifications to your living space, consider a smart-thermostat. A little technology can go a long way. There are several products to choose from based on your preferences, needs, and your budget. A smart-thermostat can help you create a customized heating and cooling schedule for your home so you’re not wasting the cool air when you’re not home. This is the kind of technology that’s easy to use and can pay for itself quickly.
- Keep it Out. The sun that is. Closing your drapes on the south and west sides of your house and keep the sun from heating up your home or apartment like a sauna. In fact, the heat from sun shining in through windows can account for over 25% of your annual cooling costs.
- Take it Outside. Simply stated, get outside and enjoy the summer! If you go to the park and pool more frequently you won’t need to keep your house as cool because, “empty couches don’t sweat.”
These are plenty of simple and efficient ways for you to save money and use less energy this summer.
