Are you tired of AC making your electric bill high in the summer? Use this guide to reduce your electricity usage and save money during the hot season.
In St. Louis, the temperature gets up to 100 degrees in the summer. That high temperature mixed with the constant humidity means an increase in AC usage. How can you save money on electricity when using your AC unit? Here are some tips and tricks that’ll help you save on electric bills this summer:
Purchase a Smart Thermostat
While the initial cost of a smart thermostat is higher than a standard thermostat, it saves you money over time. On average, smart thermostats save customers 15% on air conditioning and around $140 per year, so the $200 investment is definitely worth it.
Features of these thermostats include:
- Automatically developing a schedule based on your preferred temperatures
- Providing regular energy usage data so you can manage it
- Remote control of temperature via your smartphone
Turn Off Your AC When You Don’t Need It
Turn off your AC at night when it’s cooler, when you’re sleeping, or when you’re not home. Keep your thermostat set between 78 and 80 degrees to maintain a consistent temperature. On average, you can save 4% to 8% on cooling costs for every degree you raise your thermostat.
Many people believe that turning your AC on and off regularly costs more because it “strains your system.” According to A+ Air Conditioning, that is 100% false. Your AC wastes energy when no one is home, so turning it off when you don’t need it cuts your summer electric costs and improves your overall system.
Use Your Ceiling Fan
Using your ceiling or box fan when the heat is less intense helps cool your space without using your air conditioner. It’s no secret that using your AC more increases your summer electric bills; fans are a great alternative when the heat is bearable.
We recommend using a fan during the night instead if you sleep with the AC on, as it effectively cools your room but costs a fraction of the price.
Keep the Sun Out With Blinds and Curtains
Outside light brings heat into your home, making AC a necessity when it doesn’t have to be. Closing your curtains keeps the light out, which in turn keeps the heat out. Blinds and curtains reduce heat gain by nearly 45%, helping you lower your summer electric bill.
Install Your AC Unit Away From Windows
If you’re installing a new AC unit, stay away from window units, if possible. Placing your unit in your window puts it in direct sunlight during the hottest parts of the day. Your AC has to work harder to cool down itself and your space when it’s in the sunlight.
Consider alternative options like central AC or ductless mini-split AC.
Switch to LED Lights
LED lights emit minimal heat, whereas standard incandescent lights release 90% of their energy as heat. On top of that, LED bulbs use 80% less electricity and last longer, so you save on bulb replacement and electricity costs.
Do you want to learn more about how LED bulbs can improve your home or business’s energy efficiency?
Managing Summer Electricity Benefits You in the Winter
There’s a significant difference between electricity usage in the winter vs. summer. Winter electricity bills are almost always higher than in the summer because AC and ceiling fans turn into space heaters, electric blankets, water heaters, and heating systems. By keeping your summer electric bills low, you level out the costs of winter electric.
Implementing the above tips will save you money during the summer and allow you to save for your future winter electricity bills.
Want To Save on Electric Bills This Summer?
Paramount Companies can help you lower your summer electric bill with quality LED lighting services. We specialize in commercial and residential electric services and find cost-effective, energy-saving solutions for homes and businesses of all sizes.
Our expert team has got you covered, whether you’re starting a new lighting project or want to enhance your existing lighting fixtures. Contact us today to get started.
