With the rising temperatures often come rising energy bills. This isn’t a coincidence. No need to ask “how to lower my electric bill”. By understanding the reasons behind the increase, you are able to take the needed steps to keep your summer energy bills in check and (hopefully) take a load off of your wallet.
Common Causes of Elevated Summer Energy Bills
High energy bills in the summer aren’t because the stars aligned just right. Typically, it’s due to the use of air conditioning. The higher the temperature, the harder the unit has to work to meet its target. Ultimately, more energy is used, and more energy means higher electric bills. We don’t however want to put all of the blame on your AC. Here are a few other culprits you should keep in mind when thinking about how to keep the electric bill down:
Standby Power Consumption
This is when a device is turned off, but still plugged into the electric outlet. It’s “standing by” just waiting to be used. Despite the item not actively working, it’s still drawing power, and this can become more noticeable in the summer months.
Unsealed Cracks
If you have air leaks (aka gaps) around doors, windows, in your attic or elsewhere, expect to see higher energy bills (and not just in the summer). Gaps let in external, unneeded, air. Your system in turn works more frequently to compensate.
Bad Insulation
While gaps let in the air that you don’t want, poor insulation lets out the air you do want. Poor home insulation goes hand in hand with inefficiency.
Tips to Reduce Summer Energy Bills
The best way on how to cut down on the electric bill is to double check it for accuracy. It’s not uncommon for the price of electricity to be higher in the summer due to the increased demand. To avoid surprises, we recommend taking a look at the fixed-rate plan option with your provider. This means that the bills you receive in the winter will be similar to the bills you receive in the summer. It’s significantly easier to budget for expenses when you know what to expect. With that being said, here are some practical tips on how to lower the power bill:
Unplug Unused Devices
Above we discussed how devices use extra power for standby mode. In order to counteract this extra usage, it’s only logical to unplug unused devices from power sources. For example, done charging your phone? Take the charger out of the socket and put it away.
Seal Cracks
Gaps and cracks are leak points of air. To prevent warm air from entering and cold air from escaping, use caulk or weatherstripping to seal off these areas.
Upgrade Insulation
Insulation is key for holding the temperature of the home, especially in the attic. During the summer months, attics can reach well over 100F. It’s no wonder your AC struggles to keep up and you start looking for ways to lower your electric bill. To lighten the load, and if budget allows, an insulation upgrade is recommended. Plus, an attic fan is a nice addition and can give the central air a break.
Light Your Home Efficiently
Change out your incandescent bulbs to LED ones. LED emits less heat, uses less energy, and can last up to 25x longer than traditional bulbs.
Adjust Water Temperature
A tip many may not think of, but the water heater accounts for a fair share of a household’s energy use. By adjusting the temperature to manufacturer’s recommendations (typically around 120F) you can save energy (and prevent fire hazards).
Service your HVAC
Your HVAC is working hard, give it the TLC it needs. Clean filters frequently and call the pros (like Green Ductors) to make sure your system is in good health.
Use Programmable Thermostats
These thermostats optimize cooling especially if no one is home. By taking a little time to program the settings, you can reap a great deal of savings in the end.
Close Your Drapes
It may sound simple, but block out the sun, especially in the south and west. Blackout shades can be a good investment, especially for the summer months.
Utilize Ceiling Fans
Create airflow. This in itself makes the air feel cooler.
Reduce Humidity
Humidity on the other hand makes surrounding air feel warmer. Be sure to use your ventilation fans when cooking and showering. If you live in a humid climate, we would also advise a dehumidifier for the home.
Turn up your AC
We put this tip at the end for a reason. It’s probably the one you will want to do least of all in the midst of the scorching summer sun. Nonetheless, it is the simplest. Significant savings can be reaped if you simply turn your thermostat up a few degrees.
In Conclusion
When the heat wave hits New York and New Jersey, you can be prepared. By understanding the causes of rising energy bills, you can set yourself and your wallet up for success. Plus, by implementing some of the above tips you can also make your home more energy efficient. Don’t wait, and take action today. And should you need help with that HVAC system, we’re just a call away (888-334-1612).
