8 Tips for Reducing Your Summer Electric Bill

Summer is approaching, which means it’s time to start planning how you’ll keep cool during the hot Texas temperatures without skyrocketing your electric bills. Considering your options now lets you plan early, so you can be prepared before the first hot day of the season. Don’t worry, many choices at your disposal are affordable, help keep your electric bills at a minimum, and will allow you to stay comfortable. 

1. Use Other People’s Air Conditioning

Rather than sit at home and crank your own air conditioning, go to other places and use theirs. For instance, go to the library, walk around the mall, explore an independent bookstore, grab an ice cream from a local business, or go see a movie. Supporting local businesses and not having to use your own air conditioning is always a win-win. 

2. Switch On the Fan

Did you know your fan uses a fraction of the electricity of your air conditioner? Every time you opt for your fan over your AC could mean significant savings on your electric bill. Just remember to switch your ceiling fan to a counterclockwise rotation and run it at its highest speed. 

3. Get an HVAC Tune-up

Getting an HVAC tune-up is one of the best things you can do for the summer months. If your AC is experiencing any issues, whether or not you’re aware of them, they could compromise how efficiently it works. Your AC will work harder and – in turn – increase your electric bill. 

A trained HVAC professional can evaluate your system to determine if everything is working properly and give it a light cleaning so your AC can work as optimally as possible. 

4. Do Monthly HVAC Maintenance

HVAC monthly maintenance is different from a seasonal tune-up. Many homeowners can handle these tasks themselves unless they choose to call in the professionals. For instance, dust your interior vents at least once a month and clean your air filter every few months. The end of spring is a great time to change the filter since you’ll probably use your AC quite a bit during the summer.

HVAC maintenance tasks might not seem like much, but they can help save you money, keep your system working at its best, and indicate if something doesn’t seem right with your system. The sooner you get problems addressed, the less severe they are likely to get. 

5. Have Fun Outside

There are so many ways to have fun outdoors during the summer that can help you decrease your electric bill by keeping you out of the house. Go to the beach or take a dip in your (or a local) pool. Have a picnic in your backyard or at a local park, read a good book in the sunshine, go for a walk or roller skating, play with your pets, go camping in your backyard, or take a bike ride through an unfamiliar town. 

6. Contact Your Local Electricity Provider

Reach out to your local electricity provider and ask them if they can recommend any ways you can lower your electric bill or if there are any discounts for which you might be eligible. They can review your account and give you options to help lower your summer electric bill. 

7. Close Your Blinds

The more sunlight you let into your home, the warmer it will feel and the more you might want to crank your AC. Close your blinds to keep out the sunshine. It will also be better for your furniture, considering natural light can damage pieces ranging from tables to couches. 

8. Blackout Your Windows/Doors

Blacking out windows and doors in rooms that get the most sunlight can help keep those rooms cooler and your electric bills down. There are multiple options, from using film to curtains to blinds, so you can decide which is best for you, your style preferences, your budget, and the design of the window or door. 

Lowering your summer electric bill doesn’t have to be expensive or complex. Establishing a plan now and taking proactive steps can help you stay cool and comfortable anywhere in your home while still making the most of the lively season.