Summer is here and that means temperatures are rising. Your electricity bill is probably rising, too with all that use your A/C is getting. Warmer states like Nevada often see some of the highest utility bills during this time of year due to the amount of sun and lack of rainfall we get. Luckily, there are lots of simple things you can do as a homeowner to become more energy efficient. Here are six ways to save money by creating more energy-efficient homes in Las Vegas this summer.
6 Tips for Creating Energy Efficient Homes in Las Vegas
Summers in Nevada can be sweltering, with daytime temperatures exceeding 108°F. Of course, you’ll want to stay indoors and crank your A/C to avoid the scorching heat – but that isn’t cheap. These six tips will help you be more energy efficient this summer without sacrificing your comfort.
1. Switch off the Lights When Not in Use
Please remember to turn off your lighting before going to bed or leaving for work, so you don’t waste any electricity. This applies to both appliances and devices; most computers include sleep settings to save energy. Therefore, you won’t need to restart your computer every time you use it.
2. Replace Your Light Bulbs
LED bulbs are now the most energy-efficient option, consuming 75-80% less energy and staying 25 times longer than regular incandescent bulbs. Similarly, fluorescent lights are much more energy-efficient than incandescent light bulbs, using 65-75% less energy and lasting ten times longer. Using different types of light bulbs is an easy way to reduce energy consumption and create energy efficient homes in Las Vegas.
3. Make Good Curtain Choices
Las Vegas is one city that warm-ups significantly in the summer. Therefore, it’s also good to leave your curtains closed throughout the day to make your home cooler and save on air conditioning. Consider using blackout curtains to block the sunlight and keep home cooler for longer.
4. Use Your Air Conditioning Wisely
Debris might clog your ground-mounted air conditioner, preventing ventilation. The unit consumes more electricity, so it’s critical to keep it clean to save money.
5. Use fans to Save on Air Conditioning.
When it comes to air conditioning, utilizing portable fans around the house might help you save on electricity. For instance, you can put a bowl of ice in front of the fan and direct it towards you for a nice chilly breeze.
6. Switching to Solar
Using solar energy to power your home is a great way to reduce your usage of grid electricity and create more energy-efficient homes in Las Vegas. The money you save with solar can equal hundreds of dollars each month. You can save even more by pairing your solar panels with home battery storage.
Now Is the Perfect Time to Go Solar!
Installing solar is the most suitable path to keep your home more energy-efficient. Furthermore, the cost of a home solar system installation in the USA is still falling. Additionally, Assembly Bill 405 in 2017 grants all Nevada energy consumers the freedom to self-generate their electricity, enabling them to avoid volatile electricity bills.
Protect yourself from rising electricity rates and possible long-term outages by getting your solar panel quote as soon as possible. Contact us to speak with one of our Energy Coordinators today!