10 Ways to Save Energy and Money This Summer

It's no surprise that energy costs money, yet many people are shocked each month when they see their power bills. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, in 2020, the average household spent $1,831 per year on transportation ($1,568 for fuel and $263 for public transportation). Any steps you can take to conserve energy and save money are steps in the right direction.

Here are 10 painless ways to reduce consumption and cut your expenses:

1. Use Your Thermostat

Turning up the temperature during the summer and down during the winter can save you money. The Department of Energy (DOE) recommends adjusting your thermostat by 7°-10°F for 8 hours a day to keep your house comfortable while reducing energy costs. A programmable thermostat can make these adjustments automatically, reducing energy loss by minimizing the temperature difference between your home's interior and exterior.

2. Ceiling Fans

Ceiling fans can be a great way to help regulate your home's temperature. According to Energy Star, ceiling fans should spin counter-clockwise in the summer to pull hot air up and clockwise in the winter to push warm air down. This simple adjustment can make your home more comfortable and reduce your reliance on heating and cooling systems.

3. Energy Star Appliances

Energy Star identifies energy-efficient appliances, such as washers, dryers, refrigerators, freezers, dishwashers, dehumidifiers, and room air conditioners. Look for the Energy Star label when shopping for new appliances to ensure you're saving money and energy. Just remember, the goal is to use these appliances efficiently and not increase their use simply because they are energy-efficient.

4. Home Electronics

Many home electronics, like stereos, DVD players, and kitchen appliances, draw power even when turned off. Use surge suppressors to completely turn off these devices when not in use, or unplug them until needed. This small step can reduce your energy consumption.

5. Energy-Efficient Light Bulbs

Switching from incandescent bulbs to energy-efficient compact fluorescent or LED bulbs can significantly reduce your energy use. According to the DOE, switching to LED lighting can save about $225 in energy costs per year for the average household. Also, turn off lights when you leave a room, and consider installing timers in less frequently used areas to ensure lights don't stay on unnecessarily.

6. Conserve Water

Install low-flow fixtures on showers, faucets, and toilets to conserve water. Fix any leaky faucets and toilets, and turn off the tap when brushing your teeth or washing dishes. Every drop of water saved helps conserve this valuable resource and reduces your utility bills.

7. Seal and Insulate

A well-insulated home can significantly reduce heating and cooling costs. Check your attic for proper insulation—if you can see the floor joists, add more insulation. Seal any holes in exterior walls, especially around pipes and windows. Insulate your boiler and exposed pipes to help them maintain the proper temperature.

8. Change or Empty Your Filters

Regularly change the filter on your furnace—many manufacturers recommend doing this quarterly or even monthly. Similarly, empty the lint filter in your dryer after every use. Clean filters help these appliances run more efficiently, saving energy and money.

9. Close the Doors and More

Simple actions like closing the refrigerator and house doors quickly, keeping fireplace dampers shut when not in use, and closing curtains at night can prevent heat loss and save energy. Every small effort adds up to significant savings.

10. Use Your Surroundings

Strategically placed trees can help reduce heating and cooling costs. During the summer, trees provide shade, and during the winter, they act as windbreaks. Position large deciduous trees on the south and west sides of your home to reduce cooling costs by up to 25%. Evergreen trees planted on the north side of your home will shield it from cold winds year-round.

Small Steps Lead to Big Savings

Saving energy conserves valuable resources and saves money. Make energy conservation a habit for positive implications on both the environment and your wallet. By taking these simple steps, you can significantly reduce your energy consumption and enjoy lower energy bills.