We’re all aware of the tips and tricks for saving energy and ultimately money during the Winter months, but what about the Summer?? If your AC unit is the right size for your home, it should be running anywhere from 12-16 hours a day, sometimes reaching 20 hours during the hottest of days! That’s a LOT of energy! Here are some great tips to help alleviate your overworked AC unit this Summer.
The Heat Is On!
Make sure you’re doing everything you can to save money with these energy saving tips this Summer…
1. Fire Up the Grill
Finally, time to hand off those tongs and pass the apron to the Grill Meister. By taking the cooking outside you’ll be reducing the temp inside the home, taking a pause on the oven and stove. –> Check out these go-to marinades to kick off the grilling season.
**TOP TIP – If you feel up to it, now is a great time to deep clean the oven.
2. Tune up your AC Unit
This goes without saying, except we’re taking a second to say it! Have a professional check out your units to make sure they’re running effectively. While you’re at it, remove any plants or trim trees that could be affecting the air intake.
3. Focus on the Fridge
Proper cleaning and maintenance of the refrigerator, such as dusting the dirt from refrigerator coils and removing food to allow air to circulate, can reduce its energy consumption.
How To Increase The Efficiency Of Your Refrigerator
4. Don’t Let Your Pool Be A Money Pit
Pool pumps can use a significant amount of energy when running constantly. Operate pool pumps the minimum number of hours needed to keep the pool clean and invest in a timer to control hours of operation. Also, consider using a pool cover for additional energy savings.
5. Use Your Fans!
Firstly: make sure your fans are set to rotate counterclockwise. And now, make sure you use them! Did you know that simply by having the fans on, you may be able to turn your thermostat up by 4 degrees – which over our long, hot and sticky Summers will be a great money saver!
6. Keep Air Vents Clear
To maintain consistent temperatures throughout your home, keep air vents and registers clear of obstructions such as furniture, curtains and rugs.
7. Programmable Thermostats
Set manual thermostats to 78 degrees in the summer for peak efficiency and make the most of programmable thermostats, which help decrease energy use based on your lifestyle. Programmable thermostats can automatically adjust your home’s temperature settings when you’re away or sleeping – a benefit that can save you up to $100 a year.
And there you have it, just a few of the many ways you can make your home more energy efficient this Summer. If you’re looking for more ways to save money, check out this blog by Georgia Power, Explore Energy Efficient Solutions for Your Home.