A Few Ways to Save Energy This Summer

A Few Ways to Save Energy This Summer

Summer is coming and for all of us living in southeast Texas, that means energy prices will soar.  Here is a list of small changes that can have a big impact on our energy use, which saves on utilities bills.   

Follow these easy DIY fixes that you can do today or over a weekend to make your home more energy efficient.

• Change your AC filter. This is so simple, and with most newer units there is only one filter to change.  Do this today!

• Get a Programmable Thermostat. If you don’t have one already, this is a must-do. It allows you to schedule your home’s temperature automatically depending on your daily routine – increase when getting up, decreasing when you’re at work, increasing when you come home, and decreasing when you head to bed. There are so many product selections out there with high-tech features such as motion sensors. You’ll save money heating and cooling your home at the right times for you and your family. And prices have come down so you should find one in your price range.  Some power providers will even provide the thermostat and install it for free! 

• Speaking of that…make sure you are getting the most competitive rate from your electricity provider. Check out Power To Choose Texas

• Use a Smart Power Strip for Your Electronics.  It’s time to leave your old power strips in the dust, and look into a “smart” power strip. Who doesn’t see all the glowing lights from electronics when you turn off a room’s light. That’s energy being used for no good reason! The traditional power strips probably have encouraged you to keep many of your electronics plugged in constantly, using power even when you’re not using them as they wait in standby mode. Smart strips will shut down power to products on standby mode and save you 5 to 10% of your energy consumption.

• Install the Correct Lightbulbs for Your Needs. With the use of incandescent bulbs a memory now, buying lightbulbs can be confusing! Before you go to the store (and pay for new bulbs), make sure you understand the differences between LEDs, CFLs, and Halogens so you don’t waste money on the wrong bulb. The technology keeps changing and improving than the earlier ones so you might find one you like better now. Since these lightbulbs can last longer and are more expensive, make sure the manufacturer has a good refund or exchange program if something does go wrong.

• Hang Laundry on Clothes Drying Rack. Hanging clothes to dry may seem like you’re back in pioneer days but try it. Get in the habit of hanging some of your clothes on a foldable drying rack rather than in the dryer. Your clothes, your utility bill, and the environment will thank you! This can help you cut down on the number of loads you put in the dryer each week – which translates to less electricity. If you have a patio, you can put your rack outside for even quicker drying. I do this with the endless number of pool towels we use in the summer.

• Install Ceiling Fans. We know HGTV decorators hate these and want to take them down, but I don’t think they are from around here 😊 Fans will help your rooms stay cooler.  Fans can be a low-energy way to keep air circulating so you can keep your temperature set higher in the summer and lower in the winter. Just remember to have the fans reversed in the winter so the air is pulled upwards and away from you. The selection of stylish ceiling fans has improved a lot over the years, so you should find some that match your style.

• Double Check Your Vents.  Walk around your home and make sure you’re not blocking your air vents with furniture or that they are blowing the wrong way. You want this air flow to circulate efficiently to avoid having the heating and cooling blowing constantly. While you are there, you can dust!

• Plant a Tree. It sounds simple and it can be simple. Having a shade tree can help cool your home during our hot summers.  Did you know it can be 10% cooler in the shade? You and your home will be much happier since less AC will need to be cranking. With less direct sunlight on your home, you’ll save energy costs.

I hope these tips save you money this summer.   Let me know if you have any questions!