Lower Utility Bills – 6 Ways to Cut Summer Electric Bills

Posted by Suzanne Wells Published in Personal Finance, Saving Money

It is getting hot here in Atlanta. Pretty soon, we will be into a long stretch of 90 degree days. And then the electric bill gets scary from all of the air conditioning usage. Living in the South, we have learned ways to conserve the cool air inside the house and lower utility bills. Here are a few ways to cut summer utility bills.

1. Avoid adjusting the thermostat. Adjusting the temperature up and down requires more electricity.

2. Avoid using the stove and oven. These two appliances heat up the kitchen and the air conditioner has to work extra hard to cool it down. Focus on using the microwave, outdoor grill, and small appliances like a George Foreman grill or crock pot.

3. Cover the windows. You can buy inexpensive room darkening shades at WalMart. These are a great investment for the windows in your home that face to the West and get the scorching afternoon sun. Window film is another good option.

4. Use ceiling fans, box fans, and oscillating fans. You can stand warmer temps when the air is moving. Stagnant air makes you feel hotter.

5. Lower utility bills by using a dehumidifier. Humid air is sticky and uncomfortable. Look at WalMart, Target, Home Depot, and Lowes for reasonably priced dehumidifiers.

6. Arrange your day with the afternoon heat in mind. Line dry clothes if possible to avoid using the dryer. Do outdoor chores in the morning or evening before it gets hot so you don’t rush back in side and want to crank up the air.

Click here for more easy ways to lower utility bills.