Now that Memorial Day has passed, the unofficial start of summer is here. With warmer weather ahead, many households will see their electricity bills rise over the coming months as cooling demand increases.
Below are practical, easy-to-follow tips to help you lower your electricity costs this summer. Some suggestions may seem obvious, but many people still spend far more than necessary on cooling.
Since moving to Fruita, Colorado a few months ago, we’ve noticed a significant drop in our monthly electric bill compared to springtime bills in St. Louis, Missouri. Part of that is due to the lower humidity and pleasant climate here, but much of the savings comes from being intentional about how we use electricity.
Reducing energy use not only cuts costs but also lowers environmental impact. Here are effective strategies to save money on electricity while staying comfortable.
1. Keep your air conditioner off as long as possible.
We’ve only needed the air conditioner a couple of times since moving. Keeping windows open and letting natural breezes cool the house can make a big difference. I enjoy having the windows open, and it also reduces the hours the AC runs—saving both energy and money.
Challenge yourself to delay using the air conditioner when weather permits. The financial savings and reduced energy consumption are worthwhile rewards.
2. Use a programmable thermostat.
A programmable thermostat is an affordable, high-impact investment. It automates temperature adjustments throughout the day so you don’t waste energy cooling an empty house. For example, you can raise the temperature while you’re at work and have it return to a comfortable setting by the time you come home.
Many quality models are available for under $50, making the payback period quick in most households.
3. Use fans to reduce cooling needs.
Ceiling fans and portable fans create airflow that makes a room feel several degrees cooler. This allows you to set the air conditioner a few degrees higher while maintaining comfort. Remember to turn fans off when no one is in the room—fans cool people, not rooms.
4. Set your thermostat higher.
Many people keep their homes quite cool in summer. To save energy, aim for a thermostat setting around 76 to 78 degrees when you’re home. When you’re asleep or away, raise the temperature a few degrees more. This simple change can reduce your cooling bill by roughly 10% or more.
5. Limit sunlight entering your home.
Sunlight increases indoor temperatures. Keep blinds and curtains closed on sunny windows during the hottest part of the day, and open only those windows needed for light or ventilation. Reducing direct sun exposure helps keep rooms cooler and lightens the load on your air conditioner.
6. Spend more time in cooler areas, like basements.
Basements are typically cooler than upper floors. Using a basement living area or even relocating a bedroom downstairs during the hottest months can reduce the need for active cooling in the rest of the house and lower your energy usage.
7. Schedule heat-generating chores for cooler times.
Appliances like dryers and ovens add heat to your home. When possible, run the dryer and cook hot meals in the evening or early morning when temperatures are lower. During the day, opt for no-cook or low-heat meals to avoid warming the house and forcing the AC to work harder.
8. Maintain your air conditioning system.
Regular maintenance helps your AC run more efficiently and extends its lifespan. Replace filters as recommended, clear debris and leaves from outdoor units, and schedule annual servicing. Spending a little on maintenance can prevent higher energy bills and costly repairs later.
By adopting these habits—raising thermostat settings modestly, using fans, blocking sunlight, scheduling chores strategically, and keeping your cooling system well-maintained—you can reduce summer electricity costs while staying comfortable. What cooling strategies have worked for you, and how much do you typically spend on electricity in summer months?