Do you want to find ways to make your home more energy efficient this summer? Summertime brings warm weather and bright sunshine, but it can also be a time of high energy costs as we try and keep our homes cool. You can do many simple and inexpensive things around the house to help lower your energy bill while keeping your family comfortable and cool. Read on for tips on maximizing efficiency in your home during the warmer months.
Read more:
- 10 Tips to Lower Your Electricity Bill and Save Money
- Why Electrical Problems Can Drive Customers Away
- Common Electrical Problems Homeowners Do on their Own
- Why Old Air Conditioners are Dangerous to Your Health
10 ways to make your home more energy-efficient this summer
With summer officially here, most people plan activities to make the best of the sunny season. While it’s great to enjoy the warm weather, it’s also important to think of ways to make your home energy efficient during this time. Not only will this help you save money on energy bills, but it will also reduce your carbon footprint. Here are ten simple ways to make your home more energy-efficient this summer.
Unplug electronics
Electronics consume energy even when they are not being used. Therefore, it’s essential to unplug them when not in use. Doing this can save a considerable amount of energy during summer and help reduce the amount of carbon emitted into the environment.
Close doors and windows
During summer, the outside temperature is warmer than the indoor temperature. Closing your doors and windows can ensure warm air doesn’t enter your home, making it less energy efficient. Therefore, check all doors and windows to seal them properly. You can also use weatherstripping or draft excluders to keep the warm air out.
Use a programmable thermostat
A programmable thermostat lets you control your home’s temperature even when you’re not around. This means that you can set the thermostat to adjust the temperature according to your schedule automatically. For instance, you can set it to turn off the air conditioner during working hours when nobody is at home.
Change your light bulbs
Replace traditional incandescent bulbs with more energy-efficient ones like LED bulbs. LED bulbs use up to 75% less energy and last 15 times longer than traditional bulbs. This is a simple yet effective way to reduce your home’s energy consumption.
Use fans instead of air conditioners
Often, you can keep your home cool by using fans instead of air conditioners. Fans consume far less energy than air conditioners and circulate cool air, reducing the need for air conditioning. You can also try using ceiling or standing fans to make your home more comfortable during summer.
Use natural light
During the day, try to keep your home well-illuminated with natural light. Natural light is free and energy-efficient. Therefore, keep your windows open to allow as much sunlight as possible to brighten your living space.
Plant trees
Trees provide shade which can help keep your home cool during summer. You can plant deciduous trees on the sunny side of your home to block sun rays from entering your home, reducing the need for air conditioning.
Upgrade your appliances
Older appliances are likely to consume more energy than newer appliances. Therefore, consider upgrading to more energy-efficient models of refrigerators, dishwashers, washing machines, and other appliances. While this may initially cost you, it will save you money in the long run.
Use a clothesline
During summer, you can save energy by hanging your laundry out to dry instead of using the dryer. Not only is this method energy-efficient, but it will also save you money on energy bills.
Install solar panels
Installing solar panels is one of the best ways to make your home more energy-efficient this summer. These photovoltaic panels absorb sunlight and convert it into energy that can power your home. While solar panels are quite expensive to install, they can save you a lot of money on energy bills in the long run.
Making your home more energy-efficient during summer is not complicated. By implementing these simple yet effective tips, you can stay comfortable while being energy-conscious. Furthermore, you can reduce your carbon footprint and contribute to a healthier planet.
