Summer 2024 is expected to break records with scorching temperatures, leading to higher home cooling costs. The average American home is expected to face a 10-year high in cooling costs, making it important to find ways to save money while staying cool. It is essential to have an energy-efficient home to save on electricity bills, as simply lowering the thermostat can lead to increased costs. Tips to stay cool while saving electricity include using fans, closing blinds, and investing in smart plugs and thermostats.
One way to make your home more energy-efficient is to sign up for an energy audit to identify areas where cold air may be seeping out. By caulking around leaky windows and adding insulation around doors, you can prevent air leaks and save on cooling costs. Additionally, getting a smart thermostat can help regulate heating and cooling when you’re not home, saving money in the process. Smart thermostats can be controlled remotely via an app or voice commands, offering convenience and energy savings.
The placement of your thermostat plays a significant role in the efficiency of your air conditioning system. Placing the thermostat near a hot window can cause it to overwork, leading to higher cooling costs. Closing blinds during the warmest part of the day can help insulate your windows and keep your home cooler. Using a ceiling fan can also make a room feel cooler without the need to lower the thermostat, saving on cooling costs. Installing a smart ceiling fan can provide additional benefits by automatically adjusting based on your schedule.
To save money on cooling bills, consider increasing the temperature on your thermostat to the highest level you can comfortably tolerate. A programmable thermostat can help maintain higher temperatures while you’re away and cool down the house before you return. By setting your thermostat 10 to 15 degrees Fahrenheit higher for 8 hours a day, you can save up to 10% on your cooling bills. The US Department of Energy recommends aiming for an indoor temperature of 78 degrees Fahrenheit when you’re at home. Making small changes in temperature can lead to significant savings on your energy bill.
In conclusion, summer 2024 is expected to bring higher temperatures and increased cooling costs. By adopting energy-efficient practices such as signing up for an energy audit, investing in smart thermostats, and being mindful of thermostat placement, you can save money while staying cool. Simple steps like closing blinds, using ceiling fans, and increasing the thermostat temperature can help reduce cooling costs without sacrificing comfort. Making these changes can lead to significant savings on your energy bills while keeping your home comfortably cool during the hot summer months.
