Energy-Saving Tips for Summer

July 9, 2021

It’s sweet sweet summer time in Columbia — which means it is hot and humid as ever! Your home’s air conditioning system is working hard to keep you cool, and as you well know, keeping you cool inside can also result in high energy bills.

As we move into the heart of our warm season, there are several things you can do to help reduce utility costs and stay comfortable indoors. CA’s Energy Manager, Jeremy Scharfenberg, shares his essential checklist below!

Raise the thermostat setpoint when you’re not home. If your home is empty during the day or if you are on vacation, you can raise the setpoint to 78 degrees to reduce costs.
Give your thermostat a basic check. You don’t have to be a HVAC expert to ensure your thermostat is set up for greater efficiency. It’s as simple as regularly vacuuming the air vents to avoid dust build-up, and making sure there’s no furniture blocking the airflow. Also, avoid having any lamps or TVs close to the thermostat, since these give off heat and make your AC work harder.
Close your blinds or curtains. Keeping the sun out of your house when possible will keep the heat out and reduce cooling needs.
Cook outside. Use a grill to cook instead of your oven to keep the heat outside. No grill? Even using an air fryer, toaster oven or Instant Pot is more energy efficient than the oven.
Keep windows and doors sealed. Making sure your windows and doors are closed properly and air leaks are sealed will keep hot air out and cool air inside.
Turn off lights and electronics when not in use. In addition to wasting electricity, electronics also give off heat.
Turn on a fan. Fans move air in your home and can make you feel cooler and more comfortable at higher temperatures (hello, lower energy bills!). This is especially true for lowering humidity when you’re showering.
Change your air filter more frequently. During the cooler seasons, it’s fine to change your air filter every couple of months. However, if your AC is running all summer, your energy bill will benefit big-time from changing it every 30 days.
Cooler showers. Using cooler water for showers will reduce heat and humidity in your home and help you beat the heat at the same time.