As summer temperatures rise, so do energy bills. Keeping your home cool and comfortable without breaking the bank is possible with a few smart strategies. Here are our top ten energy savings tips to help you stay cool and save money this summer.

1. Upgrade Your Thermostat: Investing in a programmable or smart thermostat can help you manage your home’s temperature more efficiently. Set it to higher temperatures when you’re away and cooler when you’re home. Smart thermostats can learn your habits and adjust settings automatically to save energy.
2. Use Ceiling Fans: Ceiling fans are a cost-effective way to keep air circulating in your home. They use much less electricity than air conditioners and can make you feel cooler by evaporating sweat from your skin. Make sure your fans are rotating counterclockwise in the summer to push cool air down.
3. Seal and Insulate: Check your home for any gaps or leaks around windows, doors, and ducts. Properly sealing insulating these areas can prevent cool air from escaping and hot air from entering, reducing the load on your air conditioner.
4. Optimize Your Windows: During the day, keep blinds or curtains closed to block out direct sunlight and reduce heat gain. Consider using reflective window films or solar screens to further reduce the amount of heat entering your home. Open windows at night to let in cooler air.
5. Maintain Your HVAC System: Regular maintenance of your air conditioning unit is crucial for efficient operation. Clean or replace filters monthly, and have a professional inspect and tune up your system annually. A well-maintained system runs more efficiently and uses less energy.
6. Cook Smart: Using your oven or stove can heat up your home, making your air conditioner work harder. Opt for outdoor grilling, microwaving, or using smaller appliances like a slow cooker or toaster oven to prepare meals without generating excess heat.
7. Unplug Devices: Many electronics and appliances consume energy even when they’re turned off, a phenomenon known as phantom load. Unplug devices when not in use, or use power strips to easily disconnect multiple items at once. This can help reduce unnecessary energy consumption.
8. Switch to LED Lighting: Traditional incandescent bulbs generate a lot of heat and use more energy. Switching to energy-efficient LED bulbs can reduce your electricity usage and help keep your home cooler. LEDS also last much longer, saving you money on replacements.
9. Use Energy-Efficient Appliances: When it’s time to replace or upgrade appliances, choose those with the ENERGY STAR label. These appliances meet strict energy efficiency guidelines and can significantly reduce your energy consumption.
10. Shade Your Outdoor Unit: If you have a central air conditioning unit, providing shade for it can improve its efficiency. Plant trees or install a shade structure to keep the unit cool without obstructing airflow. A cooler unit runs more efficiently and uses less energy.

By implementing these energy-saving tips, you can enjoy a comfortable summer without the high energy bills. Small changes can add up to significant savings, making your home more energy-efficient and environmentally friendly.