Using your air conditioner all summer long might make you feel better as you go about your day, but it can hurt your wallet in the long run. Thankfully, you don’t have to bake in the sun to lower summer energy costs.
The professionals at Leggett know all about staying cool in the summer, and we’ve compiled some summer electricity tips you can use to stay comfortable and save on your energy bill while you do it. Little changes like replacing your air filter or opening your windows can considerably impact your comfort and your energy bill.
1. Adjust the Temperature
It can be tempting to turn the air on until it’s so chilly you want to use a light blanket to warm up. However, adjusting your home’s temperature properly is one of the best ways to save on your cooling bill.
If you have a smart thermostat, you can set a timer for your air to kick on and off automatically so you save energy. If you have a traditional thermostat, adjust it to a temperature that’s enough to keep you cool and comfortable, and then add a degree. Setting your thermostat around 75 degrees Fahrenheit should help you feel comfortable indoors without using too much energy.
2. Spend Time Outside
The summer is a great time to get together with friends and family, and you can save electricity in the summer by getting out of the house and engaging in other activities. Generally, the more time you spend outside, the less you need to run your air to cool down — you won’t be turning on your lights, plugging in devices or using as much air when you’re outside.
There are plenty of outdoor activities you can do to stay cool. If you have access to a swimming pool, take a long dip. Shade from trees or the side of a building can also help you feel pleasant breezes and get away from the sun. Take advantage of all the things you can’t do in the winter and enjoy the fresh air and sunshine.
3. Use Your Windows
If you live somewhere where it cools down at night, you can lower your air conditioning bill by opening your windows at night instead. Pull back your shades, crack open your windows and feel the night breeze when getting ready for bed.
That fresh air will still feel crisp in the morning when you wake up and start moving around. As you start your day, you should close the windows and draw the curtains to block the sunlight. The night air will have cooled your home enough that your air system won’t have to work as hard to lower the indoor temperature.
4. Unplug Your Devices
Unplugging your tablets, computers, phones and other devices and removing chargers from outlets are two of the simplest summer energy tips.
When you leave your phone and other devices plugged in overnight, they continue to use power even when they hit 100% battery. If you can, try to charge your devices before you fall asleep, unplug them during the night and plug them back into their chargers in the morning. This way, you can ensure they don’t waste your electricity and are still ready for the day ahead.
Additionally, you should unplug your chargers and appliances when you can. Even when your charger isn’t attached to a device, it’s still sucking energy from the outlet. Your microwave, toaster, coffee machine and other appliances are doing the same.
It doesn’t take long to unplug your devices, and you can make it a routine to do so. After you’ve grabbed your cup of coffee and had your toast for breakfast, take those cords out of the wall and leave them unplugged until you need them again.
5. Avoid the Oven
Using your stove or oven to make a big lunch or dinner might give you a delicious family meal, but it’ll also warm your house up and make your air system work harder to cool it back down. Take advantage of the nice weather and cook hotdogs by the fire or make chicken and vegetables on the grill. You can create a family backyard picnic and enjoy the sunshine while you do it.
Save your casseroles and stews for later in the year when the warm air in your home is a welcome feeling. If you absolutely have to use your stove or oven, try to wait until later in the evening to do so. Keeping that appliance off until about 6 p.m. will make a difference when you’re trying to get comfortable for the night, and you can save on energy by opening your windows for the night a little early to air everything out.
6. Consider Some Upgrades
To save energy in the summer, you may want to consider some upgrades. Little changes such as using LED bulbs and replacing your air filter can go a long way toward saving energy. LED bulbs are the most efficient light source for homes, as they use up to 75% less energy than other light forms. Similarly, if your air filter is dirty, replacing it with a new one can save energy because the air will be able to glide through seamlessly.
Additionally, you’ll want to ensure there aren’t other problems with your heating and cooling system. Improper installation is a common cause of insufficient airflow. If you want to upgrade to a more energy-efficient system or have concerns about your current one, you should contact a professional to schedule system servicing.
Turn to the Experts at Leggett
Leggett is a local Pennsylvania company with a team of knowledgeable experts who are prepared to keep your home comfortable. We proudly service areas in Pennsylvania from Harrisburg to Lewisberry, and we’ve seen the ins and outs of heating and cooling systems because we’ve been in business for over 50 years.
We understand how hot it can get during the summer, and staying cool is essential for productive and happy days at home. Many times, homeowners are unhappy with their air systems because they were installed incorrectly. Leggett has a 24-month money-back guarantee because we know we’ll do it right the first time. When you work with us, we create a solution that fits your home and budget.
Always make the sure call and contact us. You can request an estimate, schedule a service or reach out with questions. We look forward to hearing from you.
