When the temperatures rise, so does your power bill. In an effort to keep your home comfortable, the air conditioning system may be running almost constantly. Save money by following these tips to reduce utility costs this summer.
Use Fans to Reduce Utility Costs This Summer
You can set your thermostat a few degrees higher when you use fans to stay cool. The circulation of air won’t actually cool a room, but the fans push cool air downwards. Remember to turn your fans off when no one is home to help reduce the power bill.
If you have ceiling fans, set them to rotate in a counterclockwise direction during the summer months. The fans will help circulate cooler air from your HVAC system through the room.
Humidity will make you feel warm and uncomfortable. Ventilation fans are also useful for managing your indoor climate. Use the bathroom fan when you’re showering or taking a bath. When preparing meals, turn on the fan above the stove. These fans will move humid air out of your home, making you more comfortable and improving air quality by reducing the chances of mold growth.
Summer Water Usage
During the summer you can save money on utility bills by watching your water consumption. Water your lawn and your garden in the morning so plants have the chance to soak up moisture before the summer sun causes it to evaporate. Choose soaker hoses instead of sprinkler systems to deliver water directly where it is needed.
Take cooler showers. Water heaters account for between 15 and 20 percent of a home’s total power bill. Turn your water heater down to 120 degrees. You can still enjoy hot water, but you’ll use less energy.
Reduce Utility Costs This Summer With Careful Use of Appliances
Appliances generate heat when in use. Make an effort to only use major appliances in the early morning or evening. Running the dishwasher in the hottest part of the day will heat up the room and increase humidity. Wait until there is a full load and run the machine in the evening.
Cooking a meal can increase the temperature in the kitchen by 10 degrees. For mid-day meals, prepare a sandwich, salad, or enjoy cold leftovers from last night’s dinner.
In the summer, and any time of year, wash your clothes in cold water. Laundry detergents work just as well in cool water as they do in hot. Your clothes will be clean and you’ll save on power bills. When the weather is nice, hang your clothes outdoors on a clothesline. Drying clothes outside will save money and reduce humidity.
Coastline Home Inspection provides home inspections to the Hampton Roads area. Contact us to schedule an appointment.
