8 Tricks to Keep Cool and Save on Energy Bills

Can you believe it finally feels like summer!? Many of us are looking forward to summer’s outdoor activities and fun to be had. But, for many, summer sparks a higher energy demand.

While most of us love summer, a lot of us rely on air conditioners, dehumidifiers, and backyard pools to beat the heat – especially while we’re all encouraged to stay at home.

Did you know that even those who set their thermostat to a moderate temperature can see a substantial increase in electricity usage during summertime?

For those who don’t use A/C, did you know that large electronic appliances like fridges and freezers will use more electricity because they have to work harder to keep cool?

With all this in mind, here are 8 simple tricks to keep cool and save on your energy bills this summer:

1) Cover-up!

We’re not talking about clothing – we’re talking about your windows! Did you know window coverings can save you up to 15% on your energy bills? Keeping your blinds, curtains or shutters closed will help keep your space cool in the summer. For the plant lovers out there, even sheer curtains help provide insulation.

2) Vent-it-around

Heat rises, so it makes sense that we want to help circulate air upstairs and around the home. To do this, slightly close your air vents on the main floor. If you’re in a condo and find that some rooms get hotter than others, try slightly closing the vents in the rooms that feel cooler.

 3) Smarten Up

We’re talking about smart thermostats! Programmable thermostats are a great way to help your home’s heating and cooling system operate as economically as possible. Program your thermostat so that the A/C is automatically turned off when you’re not at home or on vacation. You can even adjust this to turn it back on just before you return home – so your home is already cool after a fun day in the sun.

4) We’re Fans of Fans

Running a fan takes a lot less electricity compared to an A/C unit. Use ceiling fans and stand fans will help circulate air through your home. Make sure your fan is turning counterclockwise; this will help create a cooling downdraft. Try to avoid using fans that are ‘vintage’. Sometimes the motors in older fans will run hot which will diminish the purpose of using a fan in the first place.

5) Beat the Heat

Do your best to avoid using unnecessary heat inside your home. Use your outdoor BBQ as much as possible. If you’re cooking indoors, try to use more energy-efficient appliances like your microwave, toaster oven, air fryer, and instant pot.

If you have to use your oven, try to do this at least one hour after the sunset. Don’t forget to also turn on your exhaust fan. These tips will help you avoid heating your home on those hot days.

6) Avoid the Steam

In the bathroom, remember to turn on your exhaust fans for showering. And for those who use hair appliances, do this as little as possible – the humidity will probably reverse all your hard work anyways.

7) Light it up

Replace your traditional incandescent light bulbs with LEDs. This low-heat alternative will help lower your home’s heat production even further.

8) Don’t let it Leak

Keep your eyes peeled for any drafts or air leaks. One option is to hire a professional but for those looking to save money, we’ve found a DIY hack! Run your hand underwater to make it wet. Then wave it around common leak sites: windows, doors, wiring holes, vents, recessed lights.  If your hand is cool, you’ve discovered a leak. The most common reason for this – old weather-stripping. This can be easily and inexpensively replaced. Better yet, this simple fix can save you up to 30% in energy costs from area conditioning!