Let’s face it. Central Texans dread summer utility bills. But just because temperatures rise, doesn’t mean your utility bill must necessarily follow suit.
Try these tips to help you combat those scary summer power and water bills all Central Texas residents fear this time of year:
Let your thermostat work for you
Electric thermostats can be programmed so that the A/C isn’t on when you don’t need it. A good rule of thumb is to set the thermostat at 82° before you leave for work in the morning and at 77° when you get home.
Live off-peak
In many cities, electricity usage is calculated on a time-of-use rate. Go online and determine when your off-peak hours are and then plan to run your dishwasher, washing machine, and dryer at these times. Often, electricity rates are the lowest early in the morning, at night, and on the weekends.
Draft-proof
Drafts in your homes are huge energy wasters. Find out where air is escaping by performing a simple air-leak test. Take a piece of tissue and go through your entire house holding the tissue near windows and door frames, electrical outlets, baseboards, and other possible leakage locations. If the tissue moves, consider sealing in these gaps with caulking and weather stripping. The materials you need are relatively inexpensive and can reduce energy loss by up to 10%!
Keep the light out
Closing your blinds and curtains during the day can naturally cool your home by blocking heat that otherwise would have come in through your windows.
Improve your habits
Do you let the water run when you brush your teeth? Do your kids keep your fridge door open for a long time trying to find something to eat? Be aware of these bad habits and try to pick up a few good ones, including: taking shorter showers, turning off the lights when you leave the room, and watering the lawn at night.
Tune in next time when we examine even more helpful tips to save energy and money this summer. 1st A/C and Heating provides cooling and heating expertise in Austin, Buda, Kyle and San Marcos, Texas. Our licensed technicians are never more than a phone call away and are well versed in making the dog days of Central Texas summers a lot more comfortable.