How to be More Energy Efficient This Summer

Summer is officially here.

Staying cool has probably been top of mind lately, as temperatures hit new records across the U.S. Did you know you can be energy-efficient at home and maintain your comfort?

By following these simple tips, you can reduce energy waste while protecting the planet and maybe even your wallet.

Limit use of air conditioning

This may seem like tough advice to follow when the temperature outside soars, but there are ways to stay comfortable that don't require adjusting your AC unit to blow cooler. Consider using a room air conditioner instead of a whole-home system. That way, you’re only cooling the area you’re using, which tends to be a cheaper alternative.

If this isn’t the right option for you, consider using a programmable thermostat that’s set to consistent temperatures based on your routine. If you leave during the day, set your thermostat accordingly so it’s cool when you return, which helps you save on unnecessary costs while no one's home.

Cook in a more creative way

Sizzling temperatures call for the sizzle of a barbeque! Summer is a great time to get together with family and friends to cook out, so why heat your home unnecessarily by turning on the stove?

If you prefer to meal prep and cook inside, consider your appliances and how you’re using them. Those designated with the ENERGY STAR® seal will be more energy efficient, but if upgrading isn’t in the budget, think about using the convection feature on your oven. Doing so may help reduce your total cooking time by up to 20 percent monthly.

Apply window film

Upgrading your windows can be costly, but insulating your windows is a far less expensive way to help regulate your home’s temperature. And installing window film doesn't require you to be super handy or purchase expensive tools. Typically, a tape measure, scissors, a hair dryer or heat gun, and the insultation kit are all that's required.

Adjust appliance use

High electricity use (which can attributed to using many appliances at once) can create stress on the electricity grid. When possible, it’s a great idea to avoid using appliances during periods of peak demand. It might not seem that your individual appliance use makes much of an impact, but the combined efforts of many households taking steps to minimize their use during peak periods over time may even positively impact costs over time.

Protect the planet (and your wallet!) at the same time

Power use can spike significantly during the summer, but don't let the weather break your budget. By following a few simple steps and learning how to better manage your summertime energy use, you can help protect the environment and your wallet at the same time.