Easy Tricks To Lower Summer Energy Bills

As summer temperatures climb, so do electric bills for many households. Google Trends reports a 366% surge in searches for “How to lower electric bills” in recent weeks, signaling a growing need for cost-saving solutions. Energy experts from Texas Electricity Ratings share simple, effective strategies to keep your home cool and your bills low this summer.

Easy Tricks To Lower Summer Energy Bills

1. Run Appliances at Night

Avoid using heat-generating appliances like dishwashers, washing machines, or dryers during the hottest parts of the day, as they increase indoor heat and humidity. Instead, operate them during off-peak hours—typically at night—when electricity rates are lower. This reduces cooling costs and keeps your home more comfortable.

2. Add Houseplants

Houseplants aren’t just stylish; they naturally lower indoor humidity by absorbing excess moisture, helping to keep your home cooler. Searches for “houseplants” peak in mid-May as homeowners embrace this eco-friendly cooling hack. A few well-placed plants can boost comfort and cut energy costs.

3. Install Blackout Curtains

Blackout curtains block outdoor heat, keeping your home cooler during the day. They’ve seen a 100% spike in online searches over the past week, reflecting their popularity. Beyond summer savings, these curtains improve sleep quality and trap heat in winter, making them a year-round investment.

4. Use a Dehumidifier

A dehumidifier removes moisture from the air, making it easier for your body to stay cool and reducing the strain on your air conditioner. Searches for “dehumidifiers” peak in mid-July, so consider investing now. These devices also prevent mold and mildew in winter, adding year-round value.

5. Draft-Proof Your Home

Seal gaps around windows and doors with foam tape or insulation to prevent hot air from entering and cool air from escaping. Proper insulation keeps your home comfortable in summer and reduces heating costs in winter, offering long-term savings.

6. Monitor Usage with a Power-Consumption Meter

A power-consumption meter tracks energy use by appliances, helping you identify and unplug energy-draining devices. By understanding your consumption, you can adopt habits like turning off lights or unplugging electronics, avoiding unexpected bill spikes.

7. Unplug Unused Electronics

Even in standby mode, devices like TVs and gaming consoles consume energy and generate heat. Unplugging them when not in use can save hundreds of dollars annually, making this one of the simplest ways to cut costs.

8. Switch to Smart Lighting

Smart lighting adjusts brightness based on natural light levels, reducing energy use. Motion-sensor lights or phone-controlled schedules ensure lights are only on when needed. Dimming lights during summer’s long days can lead to significant savings.

Take Control of Your Bills

With these expert tips, you can stay cool and save money this summer. From strategic appliance use to smart home upgrades, small changes can make a big difference. Start implementing these tricks today to enjoy a more comfortable home and lower energy bills all season long.