Home Energy Saving Tips in a Hot Texas Summer
Texas summers are hot and humid, and keeping your home cool can be expensive. But there are several things you can do to save on energy and money on your home cooling bills.
Here are some home energy saving tips for a hot Texas summer:
- Set your thermostat to 78°F or higher. Every degree you raise your thermostat can save you about 6% on your cooling costs.
- Use ceiling fans and portable fans to circulate the cool air. Fans can help you feel cooler without having to run your AC as much.
- Install patio covers, awnings, and solar window screens to shade your home from the sun. This will help keep your home cooler and reduce the amount of energy your AC needs to use.
- Shade south and west windows with plants or trees to block the heat during the summer. This is especially important for windows that get direct sunlight during the afternoon.
- Close interior blinds, drapes, or shades to block the sun and heat during warm weather. This will help keep the cool air in and the hot air out.
- Use a clothesline instead of a clothes dryer. Drying your clothes on a clothesline is a great way to save energy and money.
- Outside air conditioning units, or condensers, should be shaded. This will help them operate more efficiently and save you money on your cooling bills.
- Don’t leave bathroom or kitchen ventilation fans running longer than necessary. They replace inside air with outside air, which can make your AC work harder.
- Improve your roof by installing light-colored, durable materials and by adding insulation. This will help reflect the sun’s heat and keep your home cooler.
- Install weather stripping, and seal cracks around windows, exterior doors, and other openings. This will help prevent air leaks, which can make your AC work harder.
- Programmable thermostats can save a household about $100 per year. They allow you to set your thermostat to different temperatures at different times of the day, which can help you save energy.
- Switch to a lower cost electricity plan with ElectricityMatch.com.
- Take short showers instead of baths. Showers use less water and energy than baths.
- Unplug electronics when you’re not using them. Even when they’re turned off, electronics can still draw power, which can add up over time.
- Consider upgrading your appliances to Energy Star models. Energy Star appliances use less energy than standard models, which can save you money on your energy bills.
These are just a few of the many things you can do to save energy and money on your cooling bills during a hot Texas summer. By following these tips, you can keep your home cool and comfortable without breaking the bank.
