With summer around the corner, most people look for ways to save money on electricity, and Infinity Insurance wants to help you with that! That’s why, in this article, we share useful tips on how to reduce your summer utility bills. Enjoy the sunny and warm days without worrying about how much turning your AC on is going to cost you!
1.Unplug devices
Don’t just turn the TV off, unplug it. There are electronic devices around the house that people turn off but don’t unplug such as cellphone and laptop chargers, DVD players, or even small appliances like toasters. If you have multiple devices in the same area, like a study or family room, buy a power strip to control them and turn off all at once.
Set a routine to check all the devices before you go to bed and be sure to unplug them. You’ll be amazed at how much money you could be saving by following this simple step!
2.Clean and serviced
Change the AC's filters regularly, a dirty filter will force the system to work harder. Have the AC serviced annually to make sure the equipment runs more efficiently. Doing so will save on energy consumption and improve air quality. Plus, being proactive reduces repairs and extends the life of the equipment.
3. Turn off the lights
Similar to the previous step, be sure to turn off the lights whenever you leave the house. You can save energy by making a habit of turning off the lights whenever you leave a room.
Another way to reduce your utility bills is by turning off lights during peak hours. After all, it's summer and natural light is plentiful. Take advantage of it and reduce kilowatt consumption!
4. Keep doors closed
If you don't have central AC and use portable or window units, take precautions such as closing the door to the room where a unit is on. For example, if the family is gathered in the living room and that room has an air conditioner, shut the door to keep the cool air in. It will help maintain a comfortable temperature and save money.
5. Use fans
Although not as effective as AC, fans help circulate the air around the area where they installed. In the early morning hours when it’s still cool, open windows and turn on fans on opposite ends of the house to bring fresh air in. You can do the same in the late evening to cool down the house after a hot day.
If you have ceiling fans, make sure they're on the proper setting for the season. In summer, ceiling fans should rotate counterclockwise. Many ceiling fans have a switch that allows you to change the direction that they spin. When your fans are on the correct setting for the season, they can work together with your AC to cool your home efficiently.
6. About the refrigerator
Keep doors closed as much as possible to avoid wasting energy. Keep kids from opening the doors and standing in front just to gaze inside. Also, don't put hot food directly into the fridge. Wait until the food has cooled down.
7. Close blinds and windows
Midday is the hottest time of the day. The sun is relentless, and everyone feels it. One way to diminish its impact is to keep shades, blinds or curtains closed. Some shades and blinds are specifically made to help cool down interiors and prevent the sun from overheating the house.
8. Eat refreshing foods
Avoid using your oven during the summer, especially during the hottest part of the day. Enjoy salads and fresh fruit for lunch, and grill out for dinner.
9. Spend time out of the house
Taking a stroll at the mall, going to the movies, a coffee shop, ice cream parlor or a museum are some options where the AC will have everyone in a cool and happy frame of mind. How about a trip to the library? The entertainment and the air conditioning are free.
We hope you find these tips useful to reduce your summer utility bills. Another way to save money each month is by switching to our competitive Renter’s and Homeowner’s insurance policies. Call one of our friendly agents at 1-800-INFINITY or visit our website to receive a free quote in minutes.
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