As temperatures rise, your dependence on cooling systems to keep living spaces comfortable increases, resulting in your air conditioning unit working longer and harder for your home to stay cool. This significantly increases electricity use and bills. Discussed below is how to lower your electricity bill this summer.
1. Upgrade To Energy-Efficient Windows
Windows play a crucial role in regulating indoor temperature. During summer, windows can contribute to heat gain. Suppose your existing windows are old and outdated. In that case, they may have ineffective seals and poor insulation, which can lead to summer heat seeping into your home and cold-conditioned air escaping. Installing energy-efficient windows is one of the most effective ways to lower your electricity bill this summer. These windows ensure hot air doesn’t enter your home and the cold air doesn’t escape.
More modern windows, such as triple or double-pane windows, have advanced insulation with insulating gas and numerous glass layers, reducing heat transfer from outside and into your home. This results in reduced energy consumption. Energy-efficient windows also have a special coating that helps block the sun’s powerful radiation, which ensures excessive heat doesn’t enter your home. Check out replacement windows Philadelphia for energy-efficient windows and professional replacement services.
2. Take Care Of Your HVAC System
Routine HVAC maintenance can significantly cut your summer electricity bills by preventing breakdowns and boosting the system’s efficiency. To help reduce energy consumption and keep utility bills low, consider:
- Cleaning the air filters regularly: Air filters collect dirt, debris, and dust over time, which restricts airflow and forces your cooling system to overwork. Cleaning them regularly can help ensure your HVAC runs at peak efficiency, lowering energy usage and costs
- Sealing ductwork and ensuring proper insulation: Poor insulation and leaky ducts make your cooling system work harder to maintain comfortable indoor temperatures. Seal ducts and improve insulation to boost your AC’s efficiency and minimize energy loss
- Clean the outdoor unit (condenser) and keep it clear: If the condenser is obstructed or dirty, it won’t run as efficiently. Keep the unit clean and trim back any shrubs or plants that may cause obstruction
3. Install A Programmable Thermostat
A programmable thermostat can significantly reduce energy usage and electricity bills while helping you stay cool during summer. It lets you set a cooling schedule, which helps ensure your air conditioning unit operates only when necessary, eliminating the need for unnecessary cooling. You can opt for a smart thermostat that learns your habits and automatically adjusts the settings for greater efficiency.
4. Use Fans
Portable and ceiling fans are another option for lowering your summer electricity bill. Besides helping circulate cool air in your indoor space, they eliminate the need to constantly use your cooling system to maintain comfortable temperatures.
5. Keep Blinds And Curtains Closed And Add Shade
Ensuring heat doesn’t enter your living spaces can effectively minimize energy usage. You can achieve this by keeping curtains and blinds closed during the day. Sun-blocking trees and installing overhangs and awnings can keep heat from entering your home, minimizing energy consumption and electricity bills.
Endnote
While summer is a good time to enjoy the outdoors, the rising temperatures can cause your energy bills to skyrocket. However, upgrading to energy-efficient windows, taking care of your HVAC system, and installing a programmable thermostat can help lower your electricity bill this summer.
Daniel is a Cinnamon Hollow author passionate about house and home, renovations, homesteading and DIY.
