How to Control Your Electricity Bill this Summer Season?

How much money do you spend each month on electricity bill? Do you believe this number goes up every summer season? It can be because you are not trying to save money on electricity.

Summer is an enjoyable season, but the warm weather can increase your electricity costs. In fact, heating and cooling devices consume 48% energy in a typical household. You can reduce this energy usage by using various techniques and tricks.

Minimize Electricity Usage

Improve the Property Insulation

Proper insulation not only makes the building more comfortable but it also reduces utility bills around the year.

Attic Insulation: In attic insulation first air leakage is controlled and then insulation layer is applied. It would help in coping with weather and energy bills. One survey suggests that R-48 insulation has 95% ROI.

Wall Insulation: Some studies suggest that 33% energy is transferred through walls. Spray foam insulation will provide excellent protection. Proper insulation will also reduce noise making the building more peaceful.

Invest in Alternative Energy Sources

You may be able to reduce the bill by using alternate energy sources like a solar panel. A solar system will convert sunlight into electrical energy, and with the help of a battery, you can also use that energy at night. According to current laws, you will get up to 30% tax credit for the photovoltaic system expenditure. This system has some upfront costs, but it will become free energy provider in 6-8 years for 25-30 years.

Purchase a Programmable Thermostat

A programmable thermostat can reduce energy usage at night or when you are away. You can program it to use different settings at different times. Thus it can save energy without sacrificing convenience. Many believe it can save up to 30% of cooling and heating bills. The total cost of removing the old thermostat and installing programmable thermostat is about $150-$400.

Use Energy-Efficient Appliances

Modern home appliances, such as dish and clothes washers, dryers, freezers, ovens, stoves, use considerably less energy than older ones. When purchasing these devices always go for A-rated energy efficient appliances. You should start from the kitchen by replacing devices like refrigerator and ovens. Don’t fall for the tricky marketing campaign of companies. Check industry standards like energy star logo and watch other dependable surveys and measures before buying. Energy efficient devices will also produce lesser heat.

Other Tips to Consider:

• Spend Time Outside: It will not only save electricity but will also help you to live closer to nature.
• Adjust your sleep hours according to sunlight. It will result in savings and a healthy routine.
• Live in the basement: Basement is always colder than upper rooms. If you have a basement in your house, then you can stay there longer using less electricity in air conditioning.
• Turn off lights and other devices. Unplugging many appliances like phone chargers, toasters, digital photo frames, DVD players, and TVs, will save energy as they continuously consume some power even in standby mode.

• On a side note, summer vacations and short trips also reduce the size of your electricity bill.

• Use fans in place of air conditioning system. Cross ventilation is essential in lowering the temperature. Ceiling fans will help.
• Close the windows during the daytime. Direct sun heat raises the temperature quickly which will increase cooling costs.
• Use machines at full capacity. For example, washing a single shirt in the washing machine or washing a full load will consume the same amount of electrical power. So, wash and dry full loads when possible.
• Air conditioning thermostat should be away from heat producing devices, or it will miscalculate the room temperature and will use more power in air conditioning.
• You may use other energy production items like generators. If your electricity company bills you higher rates during peak hours, it may be worthwhile to use alternative sources in peak hours. Do your calculations.
• Similarly, if everyone is living in a separate room, sharing room can save light and air conditioning costs.

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