6 Tips to Help You Conserve Energy This Summer

Easy Tips on Energy Conservation You Can Start Today

Let’s admit it- this summer heat can make you want to stay inside and crank up the A/C. However, running your thermostat constantly or cooler than usual can significantly increase your electric bill. Remember, as temperatures climb, your energy bills don’t have to. These 6 tips to help you conserve energy this summer will not only help reduce your monthly costs but also promote eco-conscious living. Whether you're a homeowner, seller, or simply want to cut back, these tips on energy conservation can make a big impact.

1. Optimize Your Thermostat Usage

When it comes to ways to save on energy, your thermostat is one of your strongest tools. More than likely, your energy provider has already advised you to set your thermostat to 78°F to help you save energy and to help the electric grid. Try these methods throughout the day:

• Set the temperature 4 degrees higher when you’re away from home for more than 4 hours.
• Consider upgrading to a smart thermostat so you can schedule cooling times from your mobile device.
• Returning from vacation? Let the house start cooling before you get back without leaving the A/C running all week.

Home Seller Tip: Smart thermostats are not only great for conserving energy but also act as a selling point by making your home appear more energy efficient.

2. Keep the Room Cool

One of the easiest tips on energy conservation is to help your A/C work smarter, not harder. It is important to be intentional about what steps you take to keep your home or business cool throughout the day. Follow these methods:

• Use ceiling fans to circulate air, so you can raise the thermostat a few degrees without sacrificing comfort.
• Block heat with blackout curtains or keep blinds closed during peak sunlight hours.
• Use smart switches for fans and lights to manage usage remotely and avoid wasting power.

3. Make the Switch to ENERGY STAR Appliances

Appliances are major energy users especially in the heat of summer. The oven, washer, dryer and dishwasher can drain your energy fast due to the amount of heat and energy needed to run them. Consider installing ENERGY STAR® certified appliances to help to reduce the amount of energy throughout the day. Try implementing these tips also:

• Wash clothes in cold water and only run your dishwasher with full loads.
• Making your home energy efficient is not just limited to washers and dryers, from refrigerators to pool pumps and even office equipment, visit energystar.gov to see what other products are available to help your home or business save on energy.

Home Buying Tip: Look for homes with natural gas connections for major appliances. Gas often costs less than electricity and is one of the most reliable ways to save on energy long term.

4. Conserve During Peak Hours

Energy is typically being used the most between 1 p.m. to 7 p.m. If you can use energy outside of this window, either early morning or late at night, you can conserve the most energy. To help with this:

• Run appliances like the washer and dryer in the evening hours and run your dishwasher overnight if possible.
• Unplug devices that aren’t in use. Even when these are off, they still consume energy.
• If you need to use lights throughout the day, consider energy-saving bulbs, like LED light bulbs.

5. Perform a Maintenance Check

Regular maintenance is one of the most overlooked tips on energy conservation but it can pay off quickly.

• Make sure your home is properly insulated. If you notice any areas that need to be sealed to prevent hot air from coming into your home or business, consider weather-stripping to quickly seal areas around your doors or windows. Noticeable areas that aren't sealed well can show up on your inspection report, so make these changes before you list your home.
• Replace or clean your air filter on the recommended time schedule. Depending on your system, this could be every 3 or 6 months. Dust or debris can cause your HVAC system to not operate as effectively, causing your home or building to not cool properly.
• Consider having your A/C unit professionally inspected. You do not want your A/C unit to break during the summer!

6. Fire Up the Grill

While it may be hot enough to cook an egg outside, the summer heat gives you the opportunity to fire up the grill. Cooking indoors raises the temperature in your home, forcing your A/C to work harder. One of the more enjoyable conserving energy tips? Take your cooking outside.

• Grilling keeps indoor temperatures down and adds a fun summer touch to your meals.
• Outdoor dining in shaded areas also minimizes the sun's impact inside your home.
• Shaded patios and outdoor kitchens are not just functional, they’re great resale features too.

By following these 6 tips to help you conserve energy this summer, you can potentially lower your utility bills, extend the life of your appliances and make your home more comfortable. These ways to save on energy are not only practical but also smart investments in your property and lifestyle.

Learn more ways you can conserve this summer and explore our other articles for additional tips and insights.

Smart Irrigation Month: Tips for Conserving Water in Your Home
Going Green? Things to Consider for your Eco-Friendly Home
Mid-Summer Home Maintenance Checklist