205-655-2396 Summer is usually a lot of fun, but it can sure be expensive. Not only do the warmer months bring lots of trips and activities, but they also see everyone spending extra time at home. This, in turn, drives up your energy use. Couple this phenomenon with the need for air conditioning, and you’ve got a recipe for some scary numbers at the bottom of those utility bills. Luckily, there’s plenty you can do to save money on utilities this summer.
Expert Tips to Lower Energy and Water Use
With just a few minor adjustments, you can significantly lower your utility bills. While each of these changes might only have a small individual impact, they can prove transformative when bundled together.
Upgrade Your HVAC System and Thermostat
An old or malfunctioning HVAC system will quietly waste energy while costing you serious amounts of money. After updating your system, your home will boast the type of top-of-the-line equipment that maximizes efficiency. A smart thermostat can also help you avoid running the air conditioning when nobody’s home to need it. These small investments will eventually pay for themselves in the form of lower utility bills.
Set Your Thermostat Higher
Laying off the air conditioning represents a simple lifestyle change that could bring significant financial rewards. While everybody likes to stay cool, you probably don’t need your living room to feel like the Arctic Circle. A little moderation will go a long way.
Take Care of Necessary HVAC Maintenance
Even updated HVAC systems don’t take care of themselves. Calling professionals in to service your system will ensure that everything is operating at maximum efficiency. A routine maintenance visit will have a major impact on your system, from cleaning filters to replacing damaged parts.
Remember to Turn Off Faucets
Utilities are expensive enough when you’re only paying for the water you actually use. The last thing you want is to pay for water that literally goes down the drain. Make sure you always turn off faucets when you’re done using them, and try to fix any leaks as quickly as possible. You should also make a point of turning off the faucet while brushing your teeth. It might feel like a hassle at first, but you’ll get used to it sooner rather than later.
Upgrade Your Water Heater
An outdated water heater will use an excessive amount of energy to get the job done. There’s no need to pass up those hot showers that you love so much, but you should at least make sure that you’re heating the water as efficiently as possible. This is another seemingly expensive investment that will pay for itself before you know it.
Use Energy-Efficient Light Bulbs
Standard incandescent light bulbs use an excessive amount of energy. In a world where efficient bulbs exist, sticking with the older models is simply insane. Changing out your bulbs will only take a few minutes, and you’ll notice the impact the moment your next utility bill arrives.
Make Sure Your Home is Properly Sealed
Leaky doors and windows are often the biggest culprits behind soaring electric bills. When warm air seeps into your home, the HVAC system has to work especially hard to keep up. All this extra work burns additional energy. Consider installing energy-efficient doors and windows to solve the problem once and for all. In the meantime, make sure windows are closed tight and use draft stoppers under doors.
Conclusion: Small Measures Bring Major Results
You don’t need to rebuild your entire home to increase energy efficiency. A few pointed adjustments should be enough to make an impact. If you follow each of the steps laid out above, you’ll be spending less on utilities by the time summer comes to an end.
