As the warmer months start to approach, it can be easy to start using more energy in your home. Especially when you are trying to stay cool. Thankfully, there are ways to reduce your energy bill without feeling the heat. We’ve put together 18 energy saving tips for summer.
Reducing your energy bill
If you are looking to reduce your energy bill, follow our advice with these helpful tips and tricks. These are just some of the ways you can reduce energy consumption around the house.
Make use of windows and blinds
Use your windows and blinds according to what time of day it is. When you wake up in the morning, it is generally cooler and therefore best to have your windows and doors open. This lets the cool air in. As the day starts to get warmer, close your windows and curtains, especially during the hottest part of the day. Once the day starts to cool again, open your blinds, windows and doors, creating cross ventilation to let the afternoon breeze in.
Tip: Check for any gaps around the windows and doors. If any are found, be sure to seal these up.
Clean your air conditioner
As soon as the weather starts to warm up, it is best to give your air conditioner a clean. Cleaning your air conditioner filters will ensure your air conditioning unit will be running at its best. If the filters are not clean of dirt, dust and grime that builds up over time, the unit will need to work harder to cool the space. As a result, your energy bill increases.
The filter should be cleaned every 3-6 months, making it a good time to do this at the beginning of each season. If you are unsure how to clean the filter, it is best to hire a qualified air conditioning mechanic.
Set the temperature on your air conditioner
Instead of setting your air conditioner controller to a cool 18 degrees Celsius, it is actually better to set the temperature to 20-22 degrees Celsius. This is a much more comfortable temperature. It is also important to keep the controller at one set temperature as this is a much more effective way to cool your house down. Keeping this set temperature ensures your unit does not have to run for as long to cool down a space.
Turn your air conditioner on and off at specific times
If the day ahead is going to be hot, turn your air conditioner on in the morning. This will keep your home cool throughout the day so when you get home you will not have to turn your air conditioner on during peak electricity times.
If you have a smart controller, take advantage of this by turning your air conditioner on before you get home.
A timer can also be used to turn the unit off at night once you are asleep.
Use certain rooms of the house
It is a good idea to think about what rooms get hit by the sunlight at different times throughout the day. Generally, your east facing rooms are going to be hotter in the morning and your west facing rooms will be hotter in the afternoon and evening. Spending your time in the cooler rooms will reduce your need for cooling appliances and therefore reduce your energy bill.
Have more barbecues
Opting for barbecues is one of our favourite energy saving tips for summer. You can also pair these barbecue meals with cool dishes like salads. Eating and cooking outside will keep your home cool at night, especially on a hot day, as the oven and stove are not heating up the kitchen.
Have shorter, cooler showers
Hot water usage will affect your energy costs. Be sure to have cooler showers in the summer and limit them to a few minutes. This can also apply to your dishwashing and clothes washing. Use the cold wash on your washing machine and rinse your plates off using cool water before putting them in the dishwasher.
Turn your appliances off
Appliances such as computers, consoles and televisions emit heat when they are running. Be sure to turn these off when they are not in use. Before you take off on that summer holiday, check your electrical appliances have been switched off at the wall.
Other energy saving tips for summer
Keep cool this summer and reduce your energy consumption with these other great tips:
- Regularly drink cold water
- Have a quick, cold shower
- Keep water next to your bed
- Change your bed sheets to breathable, moisture-wicking fabrics such as cotton, linen or bamboo
- Halogen lights emit heat so opt for LED lights instead
- Use a dimming switch on your lights
- Opt for loose fitting cotton, linen or bamboo clothing
- Avoid using your oven when it is really hot
- Do the housework in the mornings
- Use the clothes line instead of the dryer
Hire the services of your local electrician
For those looking to reduce their energy consumption this summer, your local Northern Beaches electrician can help. Matt Young Electrical Services can assist in installing energy saving appliances and lights. We can also help with any repairs or maintenance you might need on existing electrical work. Get in touch with our friendly team today on 0431 086 223 or send us an enquiry via our Contact page.
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