To help you prepare for the hot weather ahead, our experts compiled a list of summer home maintenance tips to help you save energy and money. If you’re concerned about your electricity bill increasing, you can follow these simple tips to manage your energy usage and stay cool this summer.
1. Clean your HVAC unit
Your HVAC gets a lot of use in the summer months. A poorly maintained unit works less efficiently, costing you more money. Schedule routine maintenance to ensure it’s clean and ready for summer. Routine HVAC maintenance could cost between $175 and $350, depending on the complexity of the inspection. For a cheaper DIY option, you can replace the filters on your HVAC unit before summer to clear out any debris.
2. Adjust your thermostat setting
Adjusting and monitoring your AC usage is the quickest way to lower your home’s summer energy costs. According to the Department of Energy (DOE), setting your thermostat 7–10 degrees higher can save up to 10% annually. If you have a manual thermostat, try to set it between 75 and 78 degrees Fahrenheit, especially when you’re out of the house. Setting a daily schedule can also help you save on your energy costs and take a load off your mind.
If you want to automate this task, consider installing a programmable or smart thermostat. These devices automatically adjust your home’s temperature for efficiency, so you don’t have to worry about remembering to adjust it throughout the day. Some smart thermostats can be operated from your smartphone, allowing you to monitor your home’s temperature while you’re away.
3. Seal drafty windows or doors
AC is non-negotiable for many residents in the summer when temperatures get too high, so it’s crucial to get the most out of your cold air. Drafty windows and doors let cool air escape and warm air in, which makes your HVAC system work harder to keep you comfortable and drives up your energy bill. Seal up any cracks with weatherstrips or caulk where needed to avoid wasting cold air. You can handle both tasks on your own using materials from your local hardware store.
4. Put your ceiling fans to use
While fans don’t create cool air themselves, the movement of air has a cooling effect. Turn your ceiling fans counterclockwise to push cold air down and promote airflow. Increasing your AC temperature in tandem with using ceiling fans can help keep your cooling costs low without sacrificing comfort.
5. Adjust your water heater
Water heating accounts for around 12% of energy bills. To lower this percentage, start by decreasing the temperature on your water heater. You can also wash clothes and dishes in cold water. With high temperatures in the summer, these changes won’t be too noticeable, and they’re a free way to tackle your energy costs.
6. Run large appliances at night
Large appliances, like your oven, dryer, and dishwasher, generate heat when in use. While it may seem insignificant, running all these appliances during the day adds to your home’s temperature and increases your HVAC’s workload. Try to limit these appliances to the evenings when temperatures drop. Consider cooking meals that don’t require your oven, or use your toaster oven or outdoor grill to cook dinner.