Can I Lower My Electric Bill? 10 Tips on How to Do It This Summer

Summer heat can make your electric bill skyrocket, but you don't have to sweat it. With a few simple changes, you can keep your home cool without draining your wallet.

From adjusting your thermostat to making smarter choices with appliances, there are plenty of ways to cut down on energy costs. This guide will walk you through 10 easy and effective tips to help lower your electric bill while staying comfortable.

Whether it’s small tweaks or bigger changes, you’ll be surprised how much you can save this summer without sacrificing comfort. Let’s get started.

1. Use Energy-Efficient Appliances

Switching to energy-efficient appliances is one of the best ways to lower your electric bill this summer. These modern appliances use less power while delivering the same performance. Here’s how they help save money:

• Lower energy consumption: Energy-efficient appliances are designed to use less electricity, cutting down on your overall usage.
• Higher star ratings: Look for appliances with high energy star ratings, which indicate better efficiency and lower running costs.
• Advanced features: Many energy-efficient models come with features like eco-modes, which optimise performance while using less energy.
• Long-term savings: Though these appliances may cost more upfront, the reduction in your electricity bill makes them worth the investment.

Upgrading your home with energy-efficient options can lead to significant savings throughout the summer and beyond.

2. Install a Programmable Thermostat

One of the easiest ways to lower your electric bill this summer is by installing a programmable thermostat. These devices let you set specific temperatures for different times of the day, so your air conditioning isn’t working harder than it needs to.

For example, you can program the thermostat to keep your home cooler when you’re there and let the temperature rise when you’re away or asleep. By adjusting your AC usage to match your actual needs, you’ll save energy and money.

Many smart thermostats also allow remote control via your smartphone, so you can adjust the temperature even when you’re not home. It’s a simple upgrade that can lead to noticeable savings on your energy bill.

3. Seal and Insulate Your Home

Keeping your home cool in the summer doesn’t just depend on your air conditioner − it also requires good insulation and sealing. If your home has gaps around doors, windows, or even in the attic, cool air can escape, forcing your AC to work overtime.

Sealing those cracks and improving insulation helps trap cool air inside, reducing the need for constant air conditioning. Weather stripping and caulking are simple fixes that can make a big difference.

You should also check your ceiling’s insulation, as heat can seep in through the roof. By improving your home’s insulation and sealing up leaks, you’ll not only stay more comfortable but also see a drop in your electric bill.

4. Use Fans Instead of Air Conditioning

Using fans instead of air conditioning can be a simple and cost-effective way to keep cool while lowering your electric bill this summer.

Here’s why:

• Lower energy consumption: Fans use far less electricity than air conditioners, making them a budget-friendly option.
• Good for circulating air: Fans help distribute cool air throughout your space, making it feel more comfortable without overworking your AC.
• Use in combination with AC: You can raise your thermostat a few degrees and use fans to maintain comfort, reducing energy use overall.
• Portable and versatile: Whether it’s a ceiling fan or a portable one, fans are easy to move around and use in different rooms.

By relying on fans when possible, you can stay cool and save money on your energy bills.

5. Close Curtains and Blinds During Peak Heat

One of the simplest ways to keep your home cooler and lower your electric bill is by closing curtains and blinds during the hottest parts of the day.

When the sun is shining directly into your home, it heats up your living spaces, making your air conditioner work harder to maintain a comfortable temperature. By closing blinds or curtains, especially on south- and west-facing windows, you can block out the sun and reduce the indoor temperature.

Thermal or blackout curtains are even more effective at keeping the heat out. This small adjustment can make a noticeable difference in your home’s temperature, helping you rely less on air conditioning and saving money on your energy bill.

6. Use LED Lighting

Switching to energy-efficient lighting is a simple way to lower your electric bill this summer. Here’s how it can help:

• LED bulbs use less energy: LED (light-emitting diodes) lights consume up to 75% less energy than traditional incandescent bulbs, making them a smart choice for cutting costs.
• Longer lifespan: LEDs last significantly longer than other types of bulbs, so you won’t have to replace them as often, saving you money in the long run.
• Less heat emission: LED bulbs produce less heat, which keeps your home cooler and reduces the strain on your air conditioner.
• Dimming and smart lighting options: Many LED lights come with dimmable features or smart controls, allowing you to further save energy by adjusting brightness as needed.

By upgrading to energy-efficient lighting, you can reduce your energy usage and save money effortlessly.

7. Unplug Devices Not in Use

Unplugging devices when they’re not in use is an easy way to lower your electric bill this summer. Even when turned off, many electronics still draw power, known as phantom or standby power.

Here’s why unplugging matters:

• Eliminate phantom power: Devices like TVs, chargers and gaming consoles continue to use electricity even when turned off.
• Save energy without effort: Simply unplugging electronics when not in use can reduce your energy consumption.
• Use power strips: Plug multiple devices into a power strip and turn it off when you’re done to save even more energy.
• Smart plugs help: Consider using smart plugs to automatically cut power to devices during specific times.

These small steps can help lower your electricity usage and reduce your bills without changing your daily habits much.

8. Wash Clothes with Cold Water

Washing your clothes with cold water is an easy way to cut down on energy use and lower your electric bill this summer. Most of the energy used by your washing machine goes into heating the water, so by switching to cold water, you can save a significant amount.

Cold water is just as effective for cleaning everyday loads, and it’s gentler on your clothes too. Plus, it helps reduce wear and tear, keeping your clothes looking fresh for longer.

Pair this with air-drying your laundry instead of using the dryer, and you’ll see even more savings. These small changes add up, making laundry day more energy-efficient and budget-friendly.

9. Maintain Your Air Conditioning Unit

Keeping your air conditioning unit well-maintained is key to lowering your electric bill this summer. Regular maintenance helps your AC run efficiently, reducing energy consumption.

Here’s what to focus on:

• Clean or replace filters regularly: Dirty filters force your AC to work harder, using more energy. Clean or replace them every 1-2 months during peak use.
• Clear debris from outdoor units: Ensure the area around the outdoor unit is free of leaves, dirt, and other obstructions to maximise airflow and efficiency.
• Check refrigerant levels: Low refrigerant levels can reduce your AC’s efficiency, causing higher energy bills. Have a professional check and refill as needed.
• Schedule regular professional maintenance: A yearly tune-up can identify issues early, keeping your AC running smoothly and efficiently.

Proper maintenance can help you stay cool and keep energy costs in check.

10. Time Your Electricity Usage

Timing your electricity usage during off-peak hours is a smart way to save money on your electric bill. Many energy providers offer lower rates during certain times of the day, usually when overall demand for electricity is lower.

By running major appliances like your dishwasher, washing machine, or dryer during these off-peak periods, you can reduce your energy costs. Typically, off-peak hours are in the evenings or early mornings, but check with your provider for exact times. You can also set timers on some appliances to automatically start during these hours.

This simple adjustment won’t affect your lifestyle much, but it can make a noticeable difference on your electric bill, especially in the high-demand summer months.

Your Wallet Will Thank You

Lowering your electric bill this summer doesn’t have to be complicated. By making a few simple changes, like using fans instead of air conditioning, installing a programmable thermostat, or unplugging devices when they’re not in use, you can enjoy a more energy-efficient home without sacrificing comfort.

Small habits like washing clothes with cold water and sealing gaps around doors and windows can make a big difference. Every bit of energy saved adds up, and your wallet will thank you.

Try incorporating these 10 tips into your routine, and you’ll see your electric bill drop while staying cool all summer long.

Please note: This information is provided for advice purposes only. Regulations differ from state to state, so please consult your local authorities or an industry professional before proceeding with any work. See our Terms & Conditions here.