Ways to Save Money on Your Summer Energy Bill

Summer has arrived and those increases in temperatures have brought increases in energy costs. However, there are many helpful cost-saving tips that an average homeowner can implement to keep rising energy costs down for the summer months. I put together a list of 5 tips that can slash your energy bills, reduce your carbon footprint, and reduce greenhouse gases by being just a little conscious of our energy use.

• Unplug. Were you aware that even when your lights are turned off, many appliances still draw small amounts of energy? So appliances that you do not need to have on 24/7, such as home electronics (televisions, stereo systems, DVD players, and computers, wifi) should be put onto power strips and turned off at night. Turn them off especially when you leave for vacation to reduce your energy bill by a whopping 15%.
• Outdoor Lights on Motion-Sensor Settings. These security lights are a great deterrent for thieves. They are even better at scaring off energy thieves if placed on motion sensor settings as they come on only when they are needed.
• Add a Storm Door. Many homes have security doors or airtight all-season doors that don’t require a storm door. However, storm doors allow for the homeowner to turn off the air conditioning and take advantage of the breeze. 
• Dry Laundry Outdoors. Line drying your laundry has so many advantages. The sun has natural germ neutralizing effects and it uses zero energy to dry your clothes. Not to mention your fabrics will smell great!
• Cooking Outdoors. No you don’t have to revert back to the pioneer days. Barbecuing outdoors avoids the massive amounts of heat that build up in your kitchen from turning on your stove. (Which often causes you to turn on the a/c or fan to make your home more comfortable for your family or guests while you cook)

These are just a few ways that you can cut costs and keep a few of those hard earned dollars in your wallet. Make your summer more enjoyable for you and your family while giving our wonderful planet a much deserved rest.