Summer has arrived and as the temperatures begin to soar, many
consumers can expect their electric bill to do the same. As the hot
weather sets in, air conditioners will be working on full blast
effectively sending a reasonable electric bill through the ceiling.
While there are many ways to reduce your electricity usage, from
upgrading to energy conserving appliances to selecting premium grade
windows, these are not options that a cash-strapped consumer can readily
use. There are some easy and affordable ways to reduce your summer
energy bill without having to shell out big bucks on home upgrades. Here
is a look at how consumers on a budget can lower their high summer
electric bill.
Use Heavy Drapes on WindowsA method that is
frequently used to keep heat in during the winter time, can also
effectively keep the chill from the air conditioner in the house during
the warm summer months. Hanging heavy drapes in front of windows will
help keep the house cool by not letting the glaring sun warm up the
house. Depending on how many windows you have in your house, installing
heavy drapes can be an effective way of keeping your house cool. If
buying drapes for all of the windows in your home is too expensive, you
could opt to hang them in the areas of your house that get the most sun
exposure.
Use Energy Saver Option on Air ConditionerWhen
you are not at home, use the energy saver option on your air conditioner
rather than turning it off. The energy saver will keep your house at a
cool temperature. If you turn off your air conditioner the temperature
in your house will rise, and when you turn the unit back on it will need
to work harder to cool your house down again, in turn rising your
electric bill. Additionally, if your air conditioner has seen better
days, it is likely that it is not as energy efficient as some of the
newer models on shelves today. If money allows, it may be wise to
upgrade your air conditioning unit before next summer arrives.
Recall the Fire Safety Warning "Heat Rises"As
children, we are taught that heat rises. If you have an air conditioning
unit running on the first floor of your home, you could help keep your
house cooler by shutting all of the doors on the second floor. The less
space your air conditioner needs to cool, the quicker and easier it will
do so. By stopping the airflow to certain areas of your house, you are helping to reduce your electric bill in a big way.
Ceiling and Window Fans Go a Long WayWhen you're trying to save money on your electric bill during the summer, it is wise to limit the use of the air conditioner to extremely hot days. Fortunately, ceiling fans and window fans do not use nearly as much electricity as an air conditioning unit does. Well placed fans can keep cool air circulating in the house, and keep your home from feeling like a sauna. If you do not already have them installed in your home, consider purchasing ceiling fan units. Install a unit in each of the bedrooms to keep air circulating as you sleep.
Lights off During the Day TimeA simple way to conserve energy and lower your electric bill
is to turn off all of the lights during the day. If the weather
permits, open the windows and allow natural light to shine in, instead
of keeping artificial lights on all day long. This move will help reduce
your electric bill significantly by reducing your electric use during
the day, and keeping your home cool in case you need to turn on your air
conditioner later.
The Bottom LineSaving money on your electric
bill is easy when you know where to make cuts. There are some simple and
cost-effective ways to reduce your energy use during the summer months.
You can drastically reduce your energy bill during the hot summer
months by limiting your air conditioner use, installing thermal drapes
and using fans to maximize the ventilation in your home. A high electric
bill can be a source of great stress for many struggling consumers.
This summer, don't fret over a costly energy bill and find ways to
reduce your bill instead.
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