Many Floridians can expect higher energy bills over the summer. We crank up the air conditioning as temperatures skyrocket, washing machines are put to good use with extra loads of bathing suits and towels, and, during the afternoon showers, kids spend all day on their electronics. However, with a little preparation, you can save energy and money in your home. Here are 7 tips that allow you to cut down on utility costs throughout the summer:
- Use fans to cool your house
Ceiling and portable fans are energy efficient and cool large spaces in a short amount of time. Be sure to switch the blade rotation to counterclockwise, as it will push down cool air where you want it.
- Be smart with your thermostat
Turning your thermostat up to 78 degrees when you are not home conserves energy and money, as every degree above 72 can save up to 3% on expenses! If you upgrade to a smart thermostat, you can even set the AC to your schedule so it will turn down before you get home.
- Draw your blinds and curtains
While the sun is great for beach days and tanning, it is not ideal for keeping your house cool. Sunlight can easily creep through your windows and heat up your home. To reduce this, try drawing the blinds or curtains, especially if your windows face the south. Trees also provide natural shade, so strategically placed greenery can block sunlight and save you a substantial amount throughout the year!
- Switch to LED Bulbs
If you choose to block out the sun, you may end up turning on more lights than normal. Be cautious about what kind of bulbs you use, though. Consider replacing incandescent bulbs, which turn energy into heat, with LED lights. These run at a lower wattage, produce less heat, use less energy, and last longer than traditional bulbs.
- Seal cracks and openings
Prevent warm air from seeping into your home by sealing small openings. You can inspect windows and doors for small cracks and close them will caulk or weatherstripping.
- Avoid using hot water if possible
Most of the energy your washing machine uses goes towards heating the water, so doing laundry on the cold or even the warm cycle saves a surprising amount of electricity. The same idea applies to washing dishes, as well! Keep in mind that these appliances can also release unwanted heat, so wait until it is dark out to run them. This way, your AC can avoid fighting too many battles at once.
- Reduce your oven use
Save yourself some sweat and minimize the amount of indoor cooking that you do. Ovens and stoves can raise your kitchen’s temperature by 10 degrees, which can quickly become unbearable. Try opting for the microwave, slow cooker, or toaster oven to use a fraction of the energy that an oven does. Another great option is to take advantage of the warm summer weather and grill food outdoors! There are plenty of ways to prepare delicious food without generating additional heat.
As you can see, there are many ways to enjoy summer without the higher energy bills. For real estate information on the finest homes in the Palm Beaches, contact at Tauber Real Estate Services specialist at 561-626-4633