With summer comes a whole lot of fun, relaxation, and great weather. But it also generally comes with an increased electricity bill! This is usually due to the increased demand placed on electrical systems due to cooling solutions – such as fans and air conditioners, increased time indoors during peak heat hours, and added stress on electrical grids in general.
So, what can you do to reduce your electricity bill when summer rolls around? Well, our team at TRS Electric in Huddersfield has some advice for you!
Top 10 Ways to Save on Your Electricity Bill This Summer:
- Keep Devices Unplugged –
You may not realize it, but devices and appliances draw on electricity whether you are using them or not. It may be minuscule amounts, but they still are! Things like phones, tablets, laptops, even your toaster, can all suck in energy even when seemingly dormant/fully charged.
The best practice for saving energy costs is to always unplug anything that you aren’t using at the moment. This will help to keep your energy consumption to only when you actually need it.
- Open Windows at Night –
It’s not a secret that the night air is much cooler than high noon on a sunny day in July. So, you should take advantage of this! It’s never a bad idea to open windows during the evening to allow cool air to filter into the house and reduce the ambient temperature. You should also be keeping your windows closed during the day to lock that cool air inside!
For those uncomfortable with leaving their windows unlocked overnight, that’s okay! You only need a few hours in the evening to allow colder air in, which will make a world of difference.
- Reduce Hot Water Temperature –
Hot water accounts for about 18% of all energy bills in the UK–with electric water heaters that is. So, how can you cut the cost out of this? For starters, try reducing the thermostat on your hot water heater. You likely don’t need scorching hot showers in the summer anyway!
- Reduce Hot Water Consumption –
Along the same lines as the tip above, you should take a close look at how often you use hot water. Every time you do the dishes, wash a load of laundry, or take a shower, you are using hot water. Try making this usage more efficient in a few ways:
- Maximize your laundry load sizes.
- Maximize dishwasher loads/turn off the faucet in between scrubbing and rinsing.
- Turn off the hot water when shampooing your hair or washing your body in the shower.
- Upgrade Appliances –
This solution may not be for everyone, but for those who can, it works. Older appliances are a massive energy drain as they were made in times when energy was less efficient. Things such as kettles, ovens, refrigerators, etc,. Are likely the cause of a massive energy bill if they have been around the block. Consider upgrading what you can to more efficient options. This goes for light bulbs too!
- Plant Big plants (Seriously) –
Plants are an incredible source of shade and provide natural cooling for your home. Trees and high shrubs can reduce direct sunlight which gets amplified by your windows. Planting shade-giving plants can help keep your home cool and reduce the need for fans or cooling systems.
- Take Your Own Meter Readings –
You may not know this, but oftentimes electricity companies charge you based on what they estimate you will use. This can easily lead to an overestimation during peak seasons. It takes less than two minutes for you to read your meter and send the readings to your electricity provider yourself!
- Shop Around! –
Energy supply companies change their prices quite regularly–sometimes as often as twice a year! This can lead to major differences in price between them. Never feel afraid to shop around and find a cheaper price elsewhere. You aren’t married to them.
- Proper Insulation –
It may be time for you to properly insulate your home if you haven’t already. Proper insulation not only keeps cold out, it helps lock cool air in! You should take the time to have a professional inspect your home for areas where cool air could be escaping, and have them filled/plugged/insulated.
- Electrical Inspection –
Your wiring could be put under a much heavier stress load during peak hours and high heat. This can lead to increased costs and higher energy bills. You should take the time to have a full electrical systems inspection from a professional to ensure your wiring is as efficient as possible this summer.
- Educate Your Home! –
Finally, the best way to save energy is to simply become conscious of it! Knowing is half the battle, and getting your household on board will go a long way. Take the time to educate yourself and your household on how to conserve energy and reduce electrical waste this summer. Your wallet will thank you!