Summer in Tennessee is hard to beat. I love the cookouts, the longer days and all the outdoor activities our beautiful state has to offer this time of year. Summer also brings something I don’t enjoy so much: relentless heat and humidity.
While it’s tempting to crank up the air conditioning and seek relief from the sweltering heat, it’s important to be mindful that running the A/C can have a big impact on your electricity bill. Here are a few tips for keeping your home comfortable and your energy bills affordable:
Use a programmable thermostat. A programmable thermostat allows you to set the temperature in your home according to your schedule. You can program it to increase the temperature when you’re away from home and decrease it when you’re back. This can help you save energy and reduce your electricity bill without sacrificing your comfort.
Keep your blinds and curtains closed. Sunlight can quickly heat up your home, causing your air conditioner to work harder to maintain a comfortable temperature. Keep your blinds and curtains closed during the day to block out the sun and prevent your home from becoming too warm.
Use fans to circulate air. Fans are an effective way to circulate air and make your home feel cooler. Use ceiling fans or portable fans to create a breeze and help you feel more comfortable. Remember to turn them off when you leave the room to save energy.
Avoid using appliances during the hottest part of the day. Some appliances such as your dishwasher or washing machine can introduce additional heat and humidity into your home, forcing your cooling system to run extra to keep your home comfortable. Consider using these appliances at night when they have less impact on the comfort of your home.
Maintain your air conditioner. Regular maintenance of your air conditioner can help it run more efficiently and reduce your energy use. Change your air filters regularly, clean the condenser coils and have your system inspected by a professional at least once a year.
Small changes can make a big difference. These easy tips can save you money and keep your home more comfortable this summer.
We have great teams at our electric cooperatives, and we want to help you make smart energy choices.
