As the temperatures rise outside… our electricity bills tend to follow that same pattern inside. But there are several ways to stay cool for LESS this summer, and Sharky is ready to share them!
Tips for Your Home:
- AC System Schedule: Turning your air conditioner on and off will raise your bill. Why? It takes longer when it’s hotter outside to cool an entire house. Instead, when you’re home, turn the air down to be comfortable & cooler. When you’re not home, turn it up a few degrees. It won’t have to work as hard to cool you off when you get home! In short – do NOT turn your unit on and off!
- AC Filters: Clogged air conditioning filters force the unit to work harder to push that cool air through! Change your air conditioner filters every month to make the most out of your AC, and keep your electricity bill down!
- Turn on Fans: Fans circulate that cool air that the AC is pumping out, and can help make a room feel cooler. Change your ceiling fan direction to clockwise in the winter, and counterclockwise in the summer. Counterclockwise will push that cool air down into the room, helping it to feel much cooler.
- Fill the Freezer: If you have a deep freezer, this one is for you! The more you have in your freezer (that’s any freezer), the less energy it requires to maintain temperature. That’s because each frozen item helps keep the unit cold – which means the freezer won’t have to work as hard! If your freezer is lacking, add bags of ice to help keep it cooler inside without using more electricity.
- Major Appliances: Did you know that if you’ve own a refrigerator, oven, or other large appliance for more than 10 years, it could be costing you more on your electricity bill? As they age, they require more energy to power them. Newer appliances can make a huge difference!
- Night Shift: Speaking of major appliances, you’ll want to consider running your washing machine, dryer, and dishwasher at night, when it’s cooler outside. These appliances put out a lot of energy and heat… which is counterproductive to your AC unit you have running.
- Go Away, Sun!: Sunlight seeping into your home can actually make a big difference on your electricity bill. Reduce that by at least 25% by making sure you keep windows & blinds closed and adding window film. Check weatherstripping to be sure that seal isn’t allowing hot air inside, too.
Great Cool Down for Less Gadgets:
- Misters are an awesome way to cool off anywhere, without getting soaked! Plus, they are super cheap and only require water!
- Small, portable AC units for only $40!? YEP! And this one is super highly rated, too!
- Cooling sheets and cooling pillows are a WIN for hot sleepers! There are even cooling mattress toppers!
- This Chilly Pad Instant Cooling Towel is highly rated AND only $10!
- No AC in your car or truck? Always hot at work? This awesome unit is rechargeable and fits around your neck to cool you down!
- The Yeedie is GREAT for those that work outside – it clips around your waist and has some amazing features… for under $30!
What are YOUR best tips for staying cool for less during the summer?
