The heat in the South can be harsh, and summer is the time when the AC is running NON-STOP! Everyone wants to stay comfortable, but those high energy bills can be daunting. These ideas will help y’all reduce your energy bills without sacrificing comfort.
Switch to LED Lightbulbs
Incandescent light bulbs are incredibly inefficient and produce wasted heat. Only 10 to 15 percent of the released energy is light; the rest is heat. LED lights are the most energy-efficient bulb option on the market. They last longer, run cooler, and use less energy than traditional bulbs.
Give Your Air Conditioner a Checkup
Neglecting air conditioner maintenance can lead to improper performance and increase energy usage. Hire a professional technician to check your AC and ensure everything operates correctly. They’ll also clean out the unit, allowing it to save on energy usage. This will extend the life of your air conditioner, reduce energy bills, and save y’all money on costly part replacements or repairs.
Utilize Fans Along With AC
Running a fan is less expensive than running an air conditioner. However, the downside of fans is that they push around the air but don’t produce cold air. Fans and air conditioners working together allow homeowners to stay comfortable. Just ensure you turn off the fans and AC unit before leaving the house; otherwise, you’re wasting energy.
Close Curtains During the Day
The sun produces strong sunshine during the summer. Closing the blinds and curtains blocks the powerful rays from heating up your house. I personally purchase blackout curtains to take sunblocking to another level. South- and west-facing windows take the brunt of it. This idea is also one of the great ways to keep your home cool without AC, so you can save on energy in that regard as well. Then, when the sun sets, you can open the curtains and windows and let the cool breeze flow through the house.
Utilize all the above ideas to reduce your energy bills this summer and stay comfortable temperature- and moneywise. The only question left is what you will do with all the savings. Are y’all going to book a vacation? Will you tackle some important home improvements? The opportunities are endless!
