how to Reduce Your Energy Bill this summer
How to Reduce Energy Costs in Your Maryland Home This Summer
Summer in Maryland can be toasty! Which can result in a costly energy bill. If you rely on your air conditioning to keep your home cool, you're not alone. However, this can lead to significant spikes in your electricity costs.
Here are a few practical and effective ways to keep your home at a comfortable temperature this summer while keeping energy costs low.
Smart T-Stat (Thermostat) Use
Set your thermostat to 75°F or higher when you're home to balance comfort and energy savings. Each degree above 75°F can reduce cooling energy use by 10-15%. When you’re away, raise the thermostat further to give your cooling system a rest.
Consider using a programmable thermostat that can automate this process, based on your schedule and saving up to 10% on cooling costs.
Maximize Natural Cooling
Take advantage of cooler evenings by turning off your ac and opening windows at night to let in fresh air. During the day, keep windows closed and draw curtains or shades to block out heat from the sun, which can account for 10-25% of your energy bill due to heat gain through windows.
Use Fans Wisely
Ceiling and portable fans create a wind-chill effect that cools people, not rooms. Use fans to keep humans comfortable while setting your thermostat a little bit higher without sacrificing comfort. Remember to turn fans off when leaving a room to avoid wasting energy.
Seal and Insulate Your Home
Prevent warm air from leaking into your home by sealing cracks and gaps around doors and windows with caulk or weatherstripping. Proper insulation in your attic, walls, and basement helps maintain cooler indoor temperatures and reduces the workload on your cooling system. If you need help insulating your home, give us a call. We're here to help.
Maintain Cooling Equipment
Regular maintenance of your hvac system is super important when keeping your home cool and comfortable during the warmer months.
Make sure you're replacing your interior air filter at least every three months.
Vacuum your intake vents every 6 months
Schedule a professional maintenance appointment one a year. Our pros will make sure that your system is clean, ducts are clear, and all parts are running smoothly.
A well-maintained unit uses less energy and lowers your bills.
Reduce Hot Water Energy Use
Water heating can account for about 18% of home energy use. Lower your water heater temperature to 120°F and consider installing low-flow shower head to reduce hot water consumption and energy costs.
Take Advantage of Maryland Energy Incentives
Maryland offers rebates and tax credits for energy-efficient upgrades, including high-efficiency heat pumps and HVAC systems. These incentives can help offset the cost of upgrading to more efficient cooling equipment, leading to long-term savings
Additional Tips
• Unplug electronics when not in use to avoid phantom energy drain.
• Use energy-efficient lighting and turn off lights when not needed.
• Wash clothes in cold water to reduce energy use from appliances.
By using these tips, you could significantly reduce your summer energy costs while keeping your home comfortable and hvac systems running efficiently.
