As the spring and summer months come upon us, residents of the Southwest states know to expect higher energy use from their air conditioning units. What are some ways you can save this upcoming season despite the heat? Read on to find out how to save on your electric bill.
Before The Heat Arrives:
Preparations for the heat can begin right now.
- Check that your AC is in good repair – Many HVAC professionals offer discounted rates to customers who get their air conditioning systems evaluated and cleaned before the peak season.
- Check doors and windows – Make sure there are no gaps that could let in excess heat.
- Replace old appliances with Energy Star-rated products – Older appliances tend to waste energy, costing you money and creating more heat in your home. Upgrading to more efficient Energy Star-rated appliances can mean significant savings year-round.
- Turn off lights and other electronics when you are not using them – If you have struggled to develop the habit, consider setting your lights and appliances on a timer. Many modern televisions and computers can be adjusted to turn off automatically after a certain amount of time.
After The Heat Arrives:
Once the heat arrives in earnest, small adjustments to the things you do every day can result in a more comfortable summer, without breaking the bank on your electric bills.
- Set your thermostat as high as tolerable, up to 78 degrees – Give the AC a break and keep cool by dressing appropriately for the weather and using smaller electric fans.
- Close the curtains – Keeping the curtains closed during the hottest part of the day will prevent the extra heat from the sun from warming your house, making it easier for your AC to keep up.
- Avoid using electricity during peak hours – Many electric companies charge more for the electricity you use during the peak hours, generally between 2-6 pm. You can check with your local utility company and find out when their peak hours are, and choose to use high-energy appliances such as your dryer or dishwasher after the peak time.
- Cook outside as often as possible – Cooking outside not only prevents the build-up of heat in your kitchen and home during the cooking process, but helps you get the most out of warmer months by enjoying the outdoors in the evening, when temperatures may be cooler.
Last Tip: Go Solar
Solar power paired with battery storage can help you dramatically reduce your Nevada energy bills. In many cases, we see homeowners bring their monthly bills down to a $10 interconnection fee.
Whenever you are ready to see significant savings on your energy bills each month, talk to the professionals at Solar Optimum. We are happy to give you personalized suggestions and plan your entire solar energy system. Learn How Much Can Nevada Homeowners Save With Solar here.
Your Local Energy Experts
You may be anxious about how to save on your electric bill this coming summer, but worry not! There are many simple things you can do to save, and making these small changes can mean big rewards. Cutting your energy consumption by following these simple tips and investing in a solar energy system in your home can mean enjoying the hot weather like never before.
Contact Solar Optimum today to learn more about how solar power can work for you.
