After suffering through the hottest July in Texas since 1985, residents are now getting hit with some of the highest electric bills they’ve seen in their lifetime. Constant use of the air-conditioner to escape the heat wave, combined with the recent higher cost of natural gas used to create electricity, have caused electricity prices to soar in recent months.
Cooling (or heating) the home accounts for about 48% of household electricity consumption, on average, according to Power Wizard. However, there are a few ways homeowners can lower their electric bills while remaining cool during the ongoing heatwave.
Power Wizard recommends that residents set the thermostat temperature to 78 degrees or higher when leaving home. The U.S. Department of Energy (USDE) states that putting a thermostat up by 7 to 10 degrees at least eight hours a day can save at least 10% on the electric bill.
When at home, close off vents in rooms that are not being used and stick to rooms that are cooler.
Room-darkening shades and thermal curtains can help prevent heat transfer into the home through the windows. About 76% of the sunlight that falls on standard double-pane windows enters to become heat,” according to The Department of Energy.
Power Wizard also recommends avoiding the use of large heat-producing appliances, such as the oven, during the summer months. Use alternative cooking devices, such as a small convection oven or a crockpot, or try grilling outdoors to avoid heating the house unnecessarily. The use of a convection oven can lower the electricity by up to 20% each month, according to the USDE.
Building Science Corporation states that energy efficiency requires a “tight shell,” estimating that “one-third of the energy you buy probably leaks through holes in your house.” Therefore, it is important to check your home for air leaks and to seal them correctly.
Look for air leaks around windows, doors, air vents, ductwork, electrical outlets, baseboards, outdoor faucets, or anywhere else that penetration is made through a wall, floor, or ceiling. Properly sealing these air leaks can help keep your AC from going into overdrive.
Additionally, installing an attic fan will help pull hot air from the attic, preventing it from spreading throughout the house.
