By Energy Advisor Peter Niagu
It’s that time of year when summer is in full swing. Long sunny days, the aroma of BBQ, ice-cold lemonade, ever-so-distinct sound, and cicadas filling the air. To me, these are some of the best flavors, sights, and sounds of summer, and I love them all!
However, with all the great things of summer comes the not-so-great! Many of us experience anywhere from a 40%-50% increase in electric use during the summer months. Here are some ways to get the most out of your electric usage.
1. Enroll in our Radio-Controlled Switch (RCS) Program: A radio-controlled switch (RCS) is a device that is installed on select air conditioning systems and water heaters. During a peak alert, the switch cycles your AC compressor at intervals to reduce demand without causing a change in comfort. Plus, you get a $5 bill credit during the summer months (our way of saying thank you). Click here to learn about rebates or call 800-686-2357 to learn more.
2. Service your AC unit: Air conditioning units work by moving air over fins or coils that contain refrigerant. Whether you have a portable unit, central AC, or a ductless/mini-split, get your system ready for summer by cleaning the filter, coils, and fins. If you are tackling this yourself, always disconnect power to the unit. Central AC systems have two sets of coils: one inside and one outside. Both should be cleaned annually. If you hire a professional, they can check refrigerant levels during the process.
3. Seal your window AC unit: If you have a window or portable AC unit that vents through a window, seal the area between the window sashes. Water heater pipe insulation is a great way to seal this spot. It’s available at your local hardware store and is easy to cut for a snug fit. We offer rebates for this! Learn more here >>
4. Thermostat settings: Keeping your thermostat at the highest comfortable temperature will save you money. If you aren’t home during the day, increase your thermostat by 8 to 10 degrees. The USDE recommends 78 degrees. There’s no need to cool an empty house.
5. Keep your cool: Before heading to the thermostat, turn on a fan in the room you’re in, change into lighter clothing, and drink something cool. This may be enough to make you comfortable without spending more to cool your home.
6. Lock windows: After opening your windows at night or in the morning to let in the fresh air, ensure your windows are closed and locked. This reduces gaps that allow air to flow through and cause drafts.
7. Weatherstripping and curtains: Covering and sealing windows may seem like a wintertime efficiency practice, yet these help in the summer, too. Add weatherstripping to form a tight seal and curtains you can close during the hottest times of the day to block out the sun.
8. Cook al fresco: Keep your home cool by cooking outside. Many grills have an extra burner on the side that lets you do stovetop cooking outside, too.
9. Add insulation: Even in the summer, adding insulation can keep your home more comfortable and save energy used by your air conditioning system. As a general rule, you need more insulation if you can see the joists on your attic floor. Rebates are available to help offset the cost. Contact us for details. We offer rebates for this! Learn more here >>
10. Add shade outside: Planting trees and shrubs strategically around your home can shade the roof, walls, and pavement, reducing heat radiation to your home. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, tree-shaded neighborhoods can be up to 6 degrees cooler in the daytime than treeless areas. Here is a good resource to learn how, why, and where to landscape for shade.
Energy Advisor
