Who Doesn’t Want Some Energy Saving Tips These Days?
Summer sun may be on its way, but with it comes the not-so-sunny reality of rising utility bills. As costs climb ever higher, many of us are looking for ways to keep our wallets a little cooler. Want to take a chunk out of those energy charges? We’ve got your back! To help you navigate the summer heat without breaking the bank, we’ve compiled five energy-saving tips from a recent Duke Energy article.
While this isn’t an exhaustive list, it’s a great starting point to put some money back in your pocket each month. So, ditch the sweltering summer bills and keep reading to discover how you can stay comfortable and save!
Beat the Heat and Save Money: 5 Smart Summer Energy Saving Tips
1. Fans Are Your Friends: Ceiling fans are more than just stylish additions to your space. When used strategically, they can be your secret weapon against high energy bills. Did you know that setting your fan to rotate counter-clockwise during the summer pushes cool air down, creating a windchill effect? This allows you to nudge your thermostat a few degrees higher without sacrificing comfort, ultimately reducing your air conditioner’s workload and saving you money.
2. Breathe Easy, Breathe Efficiently: Your home’s heating and air conditioning system deserves some TLC, especially during peak summer months. Schedule regular maintenance for your system, and don’t forget to change the air filter every month (or according to the manufacturer’s instructions). Think of a clogged air filter like a car engine with a dirty air intake – it has to work harder to do its job, leading to wasted energy and higher bills. To make filter replacements a breeze, simply date the filter upon installation or set a reminder on your phone.
3. Seal the Deal on Savings: Your attic can be a major source of lost energy if it’s not properly insulated. Aim for an R-30 insulation rating for your attic, which helps keep both hot and cold air where it belongs – outside. While you’re at it, seal any leaks or gaps in your attic to prevent precious cool air from escaping in the summer. Sealing these leaks could also qualify you for bill credits from your utility company. It’s a win-win! Contact your provider to learn more about available programs.
4. Window Film and Window Treatments: More Than Just Decoration: Strategic window treatments are an excellent way to combat summer heat gain. Installing window tint or film, especially on south and west-facing windows, is a great investment. But who wants to live in a constantly darkened home? The good news is that modern window films can significantly block heat without altering the look of your windows. Low-e window film options are also available, offering potential energy savings in both winter and summer.
5. Power Down Your Power Drainers: This final tip might surprise you. Many chargers continue to consume energy even when they’re not actively charging a device. Make it a habit to unplug your phone, laptop, or any other electronic gadget once it’s fully charged. It’s a small change that can add up to big savings over time.
By implementing these simple yet effective tips, you can transform your home into a summer sanctuary that’s kind to both your comfort level and your wallet. So, embrace the sunshine and enjoy a cool, cost-conscious summer!
The article at Duke offers several more tips as well and you can read the entire piece by clicking HERE.
We hope that this summary gave you some energy-saving tips that you could use to start driving down your utility bills. If you would like more information about the home window films mentioned in the article, click HERE. If you have questions about our services, call us at (708) 485-8468 or email us at
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. We would be happy to provide a free, no-obligation consultation and estimate of implementing a window film solution in your Dallas, Texas or Chicago, Illinois home.