5 Ways to Cut Your Summer Electricity Cost

Summer brings along numerous additional expenses, such as vacations, camping trips, and outdoor family activities. However, rising electricity prices should not overshadow our delight in the season. To ensure a budget-friendly and energy-efficient summer, here are 5 effective strategies to conserve both energy and money this summer.

#1. Dry Your Clothes Outside

Clothes dryers consume substantial amounts of energy, and during summer, depending on their placement, they can even contribute to heating up our homes. However, the summer heat is perfect for drying your laundry outside! Whether you have an umbrella rack installed in your backyard, a line running from your house to the garage, or even a system of foldable and portable drying racks, utilizing the natural elements outside is an exceptional way to dry your clothes, sheets, and towels while harnessing the power of the sun.

#2. Watch the Temperature

Avoid excessively lowering the temperature in your house during summer. While it feels nice to come into a cold house from the scorching outdoor heat in the middle of summer, there’s no need to turn our living spaces into freezing cold environments. If you find yourself reaching for a sweater or pants after spending some time in an air-conditioned house, it’s a clear sign that the temperature is set too low. Remember that for every degree we allow our home to warm up beyond 72°F, we can save approximately 3% on our electrical costs. Additionally, be careful not to start your AC too early in the spring or running it late into the fall, as this can unnecessarily increase energy consumption and expenses.

#3. Fans

Attic fans are an excellent addition to your home and an awesome benefit to reducing your electricity bills. Not only do they contribute to prolonging the lifespan of your roof and air conditioning system, but they also effectively combat moisture and mold growth in those confined spaces. Moreover, attic fans excel in enhancing air exchanges and increasing airflow per hour, promoting a healthier and more comfortable indoor environment. The best part is that you can opt for solar-powered attic fans, which offer the added advantage of substantial energy savings for your home.

Opting for a ceiling fan or a portable fan that you can conveniently position in the rooms where you spend most of your time is a highly energy-efficient choice compared to relying solely on an air conditioner. The airflow created by a fan enables you to reduce the usage of your AC while maintaining the same level of comfort. Placing fans strategically in areas like your bedroom, kitchen, or laundry room proves beneficial in keeping cool, preventing the temptation to excessively lower the thermostat and blast cold air throughout your home. By incorporating fans into your cooling strategy, you can strike a balance between energy conservation and maintaining a comfortable environment.

#4. BBQ

Using your stove can significantly raise the temperature inside your house. Consider investing in a high-quality barbecue for outdoor cooking, preferably one equipped with burners for preparing side dishes and even an outdoor stove if you frequently engage in baking or similar activities. Cooking outdoors not only adds to the enjoyment of summer but also proves to be a cost-effective measure, saving you money on your electric bills.

#5. Natural Cooling

As much as you can, use natural cooling techniques to create a pleasant and comfortable living space during the summer months.  Take advantage of cooler nighttime temperatures by opening your windows to invite a refreshing breeze indoors. While some argue that the moisture from outside might make your air conditioner work harder, it’s important to monitor your usage and assess the impact. Additionally, harness the power of natural shade provided by trees and other elements. Consider planting trees that shed their leaves in the fall, allowing sunlight to filter through during the winter when it is desired, while offering protection from excessive heat during the summer.