As the thermometer rises this summer, so will energy consumption. Here are a few ways you can reduce your energy usage.
Turn Off Lights When Leaving a Room
Turning off the lights when leaving a room is one of the easiest ways to save energy.
Draw the Curtains
Closing curtains, drapes, or blinds on windows receiving direct sunlight reduces heat gain in your home and keeps your air conditioner from running as much on hot summer days.
Adjust the Thermostat
Increasing your home’s thermostat by a couple of degrees when you’re not home can make a difference in your monthly electric bills. The U.S. Department of Energy recommends setting your thermostat to 78 degrees or higher when you’re home in the summer months to reduce electricity consumption.
Grill Out
Opting for small appliances or grilling out instead of using the oven during hot summer days will not only conserve the electricity the oven would otherwise use but also reduce heat gain in your home.
Turn on Fans
Ceiling fans can keep you comfortable when your thermostat is set to a higher temperature.
Other energy-saving tips include short showers, turning TVs when leaving a room, washing laundry in cold water, turning down the temperature on electric water heaters, and keeping overhead doors closed as much as possible on attached garages. Unplugging chargers, electronic devices, and small appliances when not in use can also reduce vampire loads, or electricity consumed when appliances are powered off.
Making these simple changes will noticeably reduce your electricity consumption.