Summer Energy Savings

Summer energy savings in s HOT topic these days. I am always looking for ways to save energy in the summer months.  Just because the temperatures are rising outside, doesn’t mean your energy bills need to also.  Follow these tips to save energy this summer.

1. Ventilation is your Summer Energy Friend

Keeping your home easy breezy is a great way to keep the warm air moving out allowing the cool air to come in.  If you have ceiling fans, make good use of them!  If not, you can get a good deal on fans at Target, but make sure you get there early in season before they sell out. Even if it’s hot inside, your house will feel much cooler when you keep the breeze flowing.

Pro tip: try airing out your house before you turn on the AC.  If you can cool the house down even just a few degrees before turning on your AC, your unit will not have to work as hard to cool down the house.

2. Take it Easy on your Thermostat

Especially in the heat of summer, you might be tempted to crank up the AC and place your thermostat at 68 degrees, but you will pay for it literally!  Studies have shown that for every degree you place your thermostat above 72, you save 3% on your energy bill.  Think about what you’re comfortable with and try to keep it above 72!

Pro tip: invest in a smart thermostat so you can set the temperature while you’re away.

3. Close the Blinds

Closing the blinds before you leave the house will keep the sunlight from heating up your house.  When the sun comes in from windows, it heats up the floor and everything it touches, bringing the temperature of your house up.  Closing the blinds will help to keep the house cooler, making it easier to cool down when you get home.

Pro tip: don’t forget to open up the windows when the outside temperature cools down, so you can let your house breathe and cool it down without the AC. 

4. It’s Grilling Season

Who doesn’t love a delicious burger in the middle of summer?! Grilling most of your meals during the summer is also a great way to save energy!  By not using the oven or stove inside, you are keeping your house cooler, which will keep you from cranking up the AC.

Pro tip: stay tuned for my Grilling 101 blog coming soon! I am new to grilling myself, follow along if you are too!

5. Keep it Cool

Even in the shower!  I love a steamy hot shower, but in the summer I try to cool down the temperature of my water if I can.  The steam generated from your shower will eventually make its way through the house and adds to the rising temperature inside.  If you can manage to take a lukewarm shower you will save yourself in the end.

Pro tip: try to wash your clothes on cool and hang dry as much as you can.  Hot washes and dryers also add the rising temps, so try to keep everything on cool during a heatwave.

If you’re lucky enough to live on the coast or near a lake, make sure you’re taking advantage it!  A day outside in the water is the best way to save energy in the summer … and it’s a great way to make memories with your friends and family! Life’s a beach … but your summer energy

Kristin Francy, Insurance & Financial Services Agent.

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