With temperatures rising, expect your monthly power bill to increase. Most homeowners use the air conditioning when the weather is hot, leading to more energy consumption. To help prevent skyrocketing utility bills, reduce energy use this summer.
Reduce Your Home’s Summer Energy Use
You don’t have to be uncomfortable during the summer heat to keep your utility bills down. You can do several simple things to create a more energy-efficient home.
1. Have the HVAC System Inspected
The first step to reducing energy use and saving money is having the HVAC system inspected by a professional. Routine maintenance helps the HVAC system function properly and efficiently. Hire a trained HVAC service technician to guarantee the system can operate at peak performance, even during the year’s hottest days.
2. Switch to a Programmable Thermostat to Reduce Energy Use
A programmable thermostat allows you to take control of your home’s energy use. Rather than cooling the living spaces all day when no one is home, a programmable thermostat will turn the air conditioner on an hour or so before you arrive home from work. Pre-set the thermostat to raise or lower the temperature in the house automatically based on the day and time.
3. Use Ceiling Fans to Your Advantage
It is considerably less expensive to run the ceiling fans in your home than an air conditioning system. However, ceiling fans don’t produce cool air like an air conditioner. Instead, they move the air in the room, creating a wind chill effect. The circulation of the air helps you feel more comfortable in the space.
Ceiling fans and air conditioning work well together, keeping your home cooler without lowering the temperature on the thermostat. Set the fan to rotate counterclockwise in the summer.
4. Unplug Appliances to Reduce Energy Use
If you aren’t using an appliance, unplug it. Whether it’s the coffee maker, microwave, or laptop, electronics generate heat, even if the device is powered off. To reduce this phantom energy drain and lower the power bill, unplug appliances that aren’t in use.
Be smarter about your energy habits to reduce the amount of electricity you use. You’ll lower the power bill this summer and learn to save energy throughout the year. Use the above tips to become more energy-efficient at home.
HomeSource Inspections offers home inspections to homebuyers and sellers in Northern Indiana and Southwest Michigan. Contact us to request our services.