The golden days of summer are perfect for baseball, tanning, and chasing the ice cream truck. However, the scorching temperatures of this season do a number on our energy costs. Of course you can set the thermostat a few degrees higher to try and cut back, but try this list of simple changes to make your home more efficient and your energy bills less painful.
In the Kitchen:
- Adjust the water temperature to low on the dishwasher, or use the “efficiency” cycle if you have one.
- Turn off the dishwasher after a cycle of cleaning, leave the door open and let dishes air dry.
- If you don’t have a full load of dishes, hand wash! You might even find that you enjoy it.
- Put your grill to good use this summer. Everyone loves a great burger, and the more you can keep the oven off, the better.
In the Bathroom:
- Set a timer to shorten your showers, or try a few minutes of colder water in the morning (bonus, it will wake you up even before that first cup of coffee)!
- Make sure your hot water pipes and the water heater are well insulated.
- Laundry:
- Keep the dryer lint trap clean to help the dryer run more efficiently.
- Even better, toss in only the clothes you must dry, hang everything else to air dry.
- Remember to adjust your water level for smaller loads.
- Wash in cold water whenever you can.
The AC:
- Before the start of each season, have a professional do regular maintenance to ensure that the unit is performing at its best.
- A programmable thermostat will help you keep cooling costs low while you’re away.
- Close the door and registers in rooms you don’t use- don’t pay to cool a room you’re never in.
Consider Upgrades:
- Update insulation in the garage, attic, or an unfinished basement.
- If your appliances are dated, splurging on more efficient ones will save you in the long run.
- Efficient lightbulbs are pricier, but last longer than their less expensive counterparts.