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9 Smart Ways To Save on Summer Utility Bills

 

When summer temperatures rise, so do utility bills. From keeping your home cool to running appliances more often, it’s easy to spend more on electricity without noticing. 

In Indiana, energy costs have risen by 33% between 2012 and 2022, which outpaced the national average.[1] This growth adds pressure on Hoosier households. Summer months can hit especially hard when electricity use spikes from air conditioning or pool pumps.

But with a few smart changes, you could cut costs and still stay comfortable. Try these summer energy-saving tips to potentially lower your electric bill without making big sacrifices.

How To Save Energy and Stay Cool This Summer

Running your air conditioner all day isn’t the only way to beat the heat. Small changes to your routine can make a big difference. When you use energy smartly, you may see big savings on your bill.

Start by knowing what uses the most electricity in your home. In summer, air conditioners, fans, and large appliances like washers and dryers are the biggest users. Understanding this helps you make better choices.

You might also like: 9 Easy Ways to Save More Money

What Uses the Most Electricity in Summer?

Air conditioners often use more electricity than anything else during hot months. Large forced air cooling systems can make up a major portion of your power bill. 

Other common power users include:

  • Water heaters.

  • Clothes dryers.

  • Refrigerators.

  • Pool pumps (if you have one).

If you cut back on how much you use these, you can lower your electric bill without losing comfort. 

9 Smart Ways To Save on Summer Utility Bills

When you’re looking for ways to save on Summer utilities, look at your timing, windows, thermostats, fans, and appliances. These tips can help you cut down your costs. 

You might also like: Saving Money at Home: 15 Money Saving Tips to Cut Costs

1. Use Electricity During Off-Peak Hours

Electric companies charge more during peak hours, usually in the afternoon and early evening. Try to run your dishwasher, laundry, and other big appliances in the early morning or late at night.

This easy shift can lower your bill and ease stress on the power grid.

2. Open Your Windows at Night

When the sun sets, the air cools. Turn off your AC and open windows to let in the breeze. In the morning, close them to keep the cool air in. This may help, especially when nights are cooler and dry.

3. Use a Programmable Thermostat

Programmable thermostats help you control your AC use. You can set them to run less when you’re away or asleep. Some smart models even adjust on their own based on your habits.

Set your thermostat to 78°F when you’re home and 85°F when you’re gone. This can lower your electricity use without making your home feel too warm.

4. Use Fans the Right Way

Fans don’t lower the room’s temperature, but they move air around so it feels cooler. Ceiling fans or box fans can be used to make rooms more comfortable.

Set ceiling fans to spin counterclockwise in summer. This pushes air down, helping you feel cooler even with the thermostat a little higher.

5. Unplug Electronics When Not in Use

Even when you’re not using them, electronics can still use power. This is called “phantom energy.” Unplug devices like phone chargers, coffee makers, and game systems. Or plug them into a power strip and turn it off with one switch.

6. Watch Your Hot Water Use

Heating water can also use a lot of electricity. 

Try these ideas to lower both water and power use:

  • Take shorter (or cooler) showers.

  • Wash clothes in cold water.

  • Run full loads in your washer and dishwasher.

  • Fix any leaks you find.

These changes don’t just save energy. They can also help you use fewer natural resources and keep your utility bills down.

7. Line-Dry Your Clothes

Clothes dryers use a lot of electricity, especially in the summer when your home is already warm. Instead of using the dryer, hang your clothes outside or use an indoor drying rack.

The sun and fresh air can dry clothes for free. This simple switch can cut your electric bill and reduce heat inside your home, so your AC doesn’t have to work as hard.

8. Invest in Long-Term Energy-Saving Upgrades

If your budget allows, consider long-term changes to make your home more energy-efficient.

Consider the following energy-saving upgrades:

  • Add insulation.

  • Install energy-efficient windows.

  • Set up solar panels.

  • Upgrade to energy-efficient appliances.

  • Place a smart thermostat to track energy use.

Also, change your AC filters often. A clean system runs better and uses less electricity.

9. Set Up a Budget Billing Plan

Some utility companies offer fixed-rate or budget billing plans. These let you pay about the same amount each month, based on your past usage. While this may not lower your total costs, it can help you plan better. When you know what to expect, it’s easier to manage your budget. 

You might also like: What is the Difference Between Budgeting and Cash Management? 

Save on Summer Utilities with Centier By Your Side

You don’t have to sweat your electric bill this summer. Small changes can make a big difference. Use less power during peak hours. Open windows at night. Set the thermostat a little higher. Use fans. Unplug devices. Take shorter showers. Wash full loads. Hang clothes to dry. Upgrade when you can. Ask your utility company about steady payment options. Every step can add up.

If you’re ready to take control of your summer spending, Centier can help. To start setting goals for a brighter financial future, try our financial calculators.  

Source: 

[1]  https://mirrorindy.org/electricity-and-energy-costs-continue-to-grow-in-indiana/