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The coming of summer brings excitement for many people. All of the warm weather and sunshine allows us to spend more time outside and soak up some Vitamin D, but the heat of summer can also mean that money is spent on unnecessary electrical bills for many people. With summer and warm weather just around the corner, it can be extremely useful to be aware of some tips for reducing your summer electrical bill, so the licensed electricians at Midcoast Electric are here to help.
How to Reduce Your Summer Electrical Bill
Although many people end up saving on electricity during the summer by not using heat as much and spending less time using electrical entertainment, there are many ways to further save on electricity. Some great tips that might help to keep your electrical bills down include:
Turn Off the Lights
Remembering to turn off the lights is one of the most important factors in reducing your electricity bill in the summer. It is best to make use of the natural light throughout the day by opening the blinds and letting natural sunlight into your home or building.
Manage Your Air Conditioner Properly
While having an air conditioner can be a great way to keep your home cool this summer, running your air conditioner all the time can result in a hefty electrical bill. Some ways that you can cut down on the cost of running an air conditioner include:
Clean out the filters and check to ensure that the systems are operating at peak performance.
Automate your thermostat so that your air conditioner is programmed to run at certain times during the day.
Keep electric devices (lamps, TVs, computers, etc.) away from the thermostat.
Try to place air conditioners in the shade, as this can help reduce operating costs by up to 10%.
If your air conditioner is not working like it used to, do not be afraid to replace it by contacting a licensed electrician.
Improve Air Circulation
It is great to use an air conditioner to create a cooler environment, but air conditioning cannot go far without proper circulation. Proper air circulation created by ceiling fans, box fans, and other types of air movers can help make your home feel a lot cooler than it actually is. Ceiling fans and box fans also use less electricity than an air conditioner. To create proper airflow, you should consider using portable fans or ceiling fans in conjunction with your air conditioner. Another great way to create a breeze in your home at night is to open opposing windows (when the temperature outside is at least 3 degrees cooler than inside).
It is also always important to remember that heat rises. A great way to lower the temperature in upstairs rooms, especially the attic, is to install ceiling fans in problematic spaces. Setting your fan to turn counterclockwise in the summer at a higher speed can create a wind-chill breeze effect that will lower the temperature on the upper floors of your home, as well as create a nice breeze downstairs that will leave you feeling cooler.
Automate Your Thermostat
Make sure that you turn down your thermostat when you are not at home. Many thermostats can be programmed to shut off automatically during times when you are away, even if it is only for the day.
Avoid Using Unnecessary Appliances
If you have a barbecue, using it can help to reduce the amount you spend cooling your home and cooking your food. Ovens and stoves require more electricity and end up adding additional heat to your home. You can also eliminate using a drier by hanging your laundry to dry. Take advantage of the warm, dry weather by setting up a clothesline in the backyard or hanging clothes on a drying rack.
Spend More Time Outside
One of the easiest ways to reduce your summer electricity bill is by taking advantage of the sunshine and planning more outdoor activities. Turn off your televisions, stereos, and computers and spend time outdoors with friends and family.
Manage the Moisture in Your Home
Sometimes the heat in your home is not the problem, the humidity is. If you find that the humidity levels in your home are too high, take these simple steps to help manage the moisture in your home:
Move indoor plants outside, as plants produce a lot of airborne moisture.
Run bathroom fans for a full 20 minutes after a shower or bath to help dry out the air.
Consider investing in a dehumidifier.
Switch from Incandescent Lights to LEDs
Making a simple switch from incandescent lights to compact fluorescent lights can make a big difference in how warm a space feels. Incandescent light bulbs waste almost 90% of their energy as emitted heat. Not only will switching out your light bulbs cool your home but it will also help reduce your electricity bill.
Shield Your Home from the Sun
Closing the curtains and blinds on sunny days or planting trees to shade your home can help cut down on your air conditioning needs.
If you are interested in learning more ways to reduce your summer electrical bill, or to find out more about the lighting and electrical services we offer, please contact us at (732) 759-1453.