As the seasons change, you are likely to see changes in your energy bills. In the summer, it gets hotter and you’re probably cranking the AC. It’s essential to get your home to a comfortable temperature, but that doesn’t mean you need to break the bank to do so. There are several ways you can keep your energy bill from skyrocketing this summer.
Your energy bill may be higher if your home is not properly insulated. Many people think of insulation as a way to keep heat in your home during winter, but it does the same thing for cool air in the summer. As This Old House points out, if this cool air is escaping from your home, then it causes your air system to work harder which raises your bill. You need to find a way to better insulate your home. Switching to efficient doors and windows is a place to start. Newer models of windows are built to better insulate your home so you have fewer energy leaks. If you have an attic, you should do your best to keep this area insulated as well. You can also keep an eye out for any holes or cracks in your home that could lead to air escaping and fix them immediately.
Sometimes the best thing you can do is to change your energy source. Renewable energy can help you save money. With many renewable sources, you can install them on your property and then you don’t need to be paying high amounts to your energy company. For example, with solar panels you are collecting that energy on your property, and you don’t need to rely on any other source. According to Suntuity Solar, there are several incentives that bring down the cost of solar. There is even a tax credit available for those who install solar power on their property. It is a large financial investment up front, but it will bring you lifelong savings. Other sources you can consider having on your property include wind power, hydro power, and more.
In order to have higher efficiency, you need to ensure your HVAC system is running well. You can make updates or improvements to help it do this. For example, you can clean out your HVAC system, especially the vents, air ducts, and filters. It may also be in your best interest to completely upgrade your system. Old models don’t always run efficiently. A newer model can help you meet all your needs without pushing the system too hard.
This summer, avoid having a high energy bill. Make changes around your home to help you use energy more efficiently so you can stay comfortable without spending too much money. Consider what will benefit your home the most.
Read this next: Home Improvements That Work Well With Your HVAC System