As the summer months approach, many of us start to worry about our electricity bills. With the heat and humidity rising, we turn up the air conditioning or run fans to cool down our homes. But this can quickly add up on your monthly bill.
Fortunately, there are several simple ways you can reduce your energy consumption and save money on your summer electricity bill without sacrificing comfort. In this article, we will discuss five easy tips that you can use to help lower your electric bill all summer long.
5 Effective Ways To Save Money On Your Summer Electricity Bill
Upgrade to Energy-Efficient Appliances
Aging appliances consume more energy and can unnecessarily drive up your electricity bills. Replace your old appliances with energy-efficient ones that are designed to consume less energy while providing the same level of performance. According to Energy Star, a fridge that is more than 10 years old can cost you up to $110 per year in additional energy bills.
Use a Programmable Thermostat
Installing a programmable thermostat can help you control the temperature of your home and save a significant amount of money on your electricity bill. For example, you can program the thermostat to automatically adjust the temperature when you are not at home or are asleep, saving you up to 10% on your energy bills.
Install A Ductless Mini-Split Heat Pump
A ductless mini-split heat pump is an energy-efficient alternative to traditional HVAC systems. It uses less energy to cool or heat your home, resulting in lower electricity bills. Mini-split heat pumps are generally up to 30% more energy-efficient than central air conditioning systems according to the U.S. Department of Energy.
Additionally, since ductless mini-split heat pumps are designed to cool specific zones or rooms and can be programmed individually, you don't have to cool the entire house if you don't need to, reducing energy waste and further contributing to lower bills.
Another added benefit of using a ductless mini-split heat pump is that it can also act as a heater during the winter, eliminating the need for additional heating systems. It's a versatile and cost-effective option to consider for your home!
Complete Routine Maintenance
Making minor home improvements can provide significant benefits in reducing your electricity bill. Start with sealing air leaks around windows, doors, and other areas where drafts are present. Air leaks can cause your HVAC system to work harder than necessary, leading to higher energy consumption and bills. Switching to LED light bulbs can also lower your bills as they consume less energy than traditional incandescent bulbs.
Use Fans Instead of Air Conditioning
Running fans in your home can help circulate cool air and reduce your reliance on air conditioning, helping you save money on your energy bills while keeping your home cool and comfortable. According to Energy.gov, a ceiling fan can help you feel cooler by up to 4 degrees Fahrenheit, allowing you to raise your thermostat by the same amount and save up to 30% on your cooling costs.
Bonus: Make your washing and drying more efficient
Around 18% of the energy used in your home is used for heating water. By lowering your water heater's temperature, you can conserve energy. Laundry is a significant source of water usage and most modern washers operate efficiently with cold-temperature washes.
To save on your electricity bill and be more eco-friendly, consider air-drying your laundry whenever possible. Clothes dryers use about 10-12% of a home's energy, so using a line to dry your clothes outside can help reduce your energy consumption.
In conclusion, making a few changes to your home can help you save money on your summer electricity bill. Upgrading to energy-efficient appliances, using a programmable thermostat, installing a ductless mini-split heat pump, and making minor home improvements are all great strategies to lower your bills while staying cool and comfortable during the hotter months.
Call on Professionals You Can Trust
If you’re in the market for a new ductless mini-split heat pump installation in the greater Boston, MA area or just looking to upgrade your home to become more energy efficient, call your trusted professionals at Home Mechanics at (978) 539-7172 for a free quote.