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Between record temperatures and rising utility rates, summer electric bills can be a scorcher to your budget. In fact, retail electricity prices have risen faster than inflation since 2022, and the government expects increases to continue through next year— even as Americans set new consumption records. But trimming your usage doesn’t have to mean making big sacrifices. Here are five ways to help cut down your costs and stay cool: 1. Turn up the temperature. You might cringe at this suggestion, especially during this summer’s heat waves, but bumping your thermostat up by just a few degrees can help cut your bill. And you can raise the temp even more when you’re away from home, then readjust once you’re back. (Or better yet, finally figure out how to program your thermostat.) Of course, this would depend on your comfort level, and 80+ degrees is probably unrealistic. (PSA: Energy Star’s guide is reportedly being widely misinterpreted as recommending 78-85 degree settings). But the point is that bumping up a few degrees means our systems don’t have to work as hard, saving energy and money.• Changing your thermostat 7-10 degrees for 8 hours a day can save you as much as 10% a year on heating and cooling, according to the Department of Energy.
• Many AC units can only cool your home by about 20 degrees compared to the outdoor temperature. So if it’s 100 out, setting your thermostat to 70 probably won’t get you there and will just waste energy.
• A dirty filter or poorly sealed window unit can cause your AC to run inefficiently. Check for gaps or holes around window AC units and make sure filters are cleaned or replaced regularly. 2. Don’t let the light in. We’re often told to let the sunshine in, but during the summer, living like Dracula (minus the coffin) can pay off big time. Sunlight might brighten your space, but it also significantly heats it up. During the hottest parts of the day, keeping your curtains or shades closed can make a surprising difference in how hard your AC has to work.
• Blackout curtains or thermal shades can be super helpful, especially on south- or west-facing windows.
• You can also apply temporary window film or heat-reflective inserts if you’re in a rental and can’t make major changes. Think of it as sunscreen for your space. 3. Shop around for electricity. If you live in a state with a deregulated energy market – check this list to find out — you may be able to choose your electricity supplier and possibly get a better rate. Some electricity companies also offer “time of use” plans — lower rates for using AC and appliances during off-peak hours. So if you’re game for doing laundry between midnight and 8 a.m, that could help too. 4. Cut the current when you can. When the weather’s milder — like in the morning or evening — consider switching from AC to fans. Ceiling and floor fans use a small fraction of the energy an air conditioner does, and the wind effect can make you feel cooler. And while you’re at it, unplug “vampire electronics” that drain electricity even when not being used, like chargers, microwaves, and game consoles. Use power strips to make it easier to flip everything off at once. 5. Cool off on someone else’s bill. If you're working remotely or just hanging out at home during the day, consider spending time in public places that are already paying to keep the AC running. Think: libraries, cafes, museums, and movie theaters. This can help you slash the number of hours your home AC is running. You’ll not only save money, but you might also discover a new favorite spot in your community.
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