Maintaining a comfortable temperature inside your home can be difficult during the hot months of summer. You can reduce energy costs by being more efficient about how you cool your home. Here are tips to lower your energy consumption and save money on your electric bill.
1. Use Fans to Reduce Energy Costs
Using fans to circulate the air can help lower your dependence on the HVAC system. Fans do not lower the temperature, but they do create a wind-chill effect that helps keep people in the room more comfortable.
In the summertime, set ceiling fans to rotate in a counter-clockwise direction. When the temperature drops in the evenings, open the windows and use a box fan or pedestal fan to help move the cooler air through your home.
2. Install a Smart Thermostat
Programmable and smart thermostats minimize energy costs. Smart thermostats have a WiFi connectivity feature that syncs your thermostats with your smartphone or tablet. With this feature, you can adjust your home’s temperature while you’re away. A programmable thermostat can be set to adjust to your daily routine so you won’t waste energy by cooling the house when you’re away.
3. Regular Maintenance
Neglecting routine maintenance of your HVAC system will result in reduced efficiency and increased energy bills. A clogged filter restricts airflow, forcing the unit to work harder to cool your home. Replace or clean air filters as recommended by the manufacturer to reduce energy consumption. Call a professional for a tune-up of your system at least once a year.
4. Shading Your Home to Reduce Energy Costs
Sunlight will heat your home as it comes through the windows. To keep your indoor environment cooler, use blinds or curtains to cover the windows during the hottest part of the day. Planting shade trees on the west and south side of your home can also help keep your home more comfortable.
5. Avoid Activities that Generate Heat During the Day
To decrease energy usage, limit activities that generate heat when it’s warm outside. Run major appliances like the clothes dryer and dishwasher in the evenings. Use a microwave to cook meals or grill outdoors. Alternatively, prepare cooler food, like sandwiches and salads.
Using these tips, you can reduce your energy bill this summer while keeping your home comfortable.
Assurance Home Services provides inspection services to Greater Charlotte. Contact us to book an appointment.