Want to save money on energy costs this summer?
First try opening your windows at night while you’re asleep and closing them during the day. This method may not work all the time, depending on the temperature, but it’s worth giving it a try.
Second, if you have central air, set your thermostat to 78 degrees. Electric service providers recommend 78ºF or higher when you’re at home, and 85ºF when you’re gone. But, if you have a swamp cooler, consider combining it with that open window at night to help cool things down during the day–or push that trusted Energy Saver button on your AC if your unit has one. And replace your AC filter if necessary.
Third, use your microwave or stove for cooking rather than blasting your oven at 350 degrees in the heat of the day. But hey, since it’s summer and all, why not venture outside and light up that outdoor grill?
Now that you’re back inside for the evening and you’ve filled up on summer evergy saving tips–not to mention some delicious barbecue–take the time to do your chores while it’s nice and cool inside your home. Wash your clothes in cold water. Run your dishwasher while you sleep. And if you have a swimming pool, turn off your filter while you’re catching some Z’s.
The key to surviving the heat of summer–and high energy costs–is to think smart all season long. Your AC can be 60-70% of your summer electric bill. Think about this nugget of information for a moment, because it’s important: employing these measures above could potentially save you from paying two-thirds of an exorbitant electric bill. And, saving money on your electric bill potentially means more delicious, prime-cut meat for that barbecue.