By Family Features | Contributor
As AccuWeather forecasts predict summer temperatures could exceed historical averages by at least 2 degrees in over half of the United States, homeowners may face increased air-conditioning expenses this season.
“During the summer months, many homeowners are looking for ways to maintain a cool and pleasant living environment without straining their budgets,” stated Michael Williford, HVAC service manager at Hiller Plumbing, Heating, Cooling & Electrical. “Our team assists clients in optimizing their current HVAC systems or transitioning to more energy-efficient models, which can significantly impact their energy bills. Additionally, there are several effective strategies homeowners can implement to manage their energy costs throughout the hot summer period.”
Here are some clever, actionable tips to help reduce your energy bills during the summer months.
Maintain HVAC Systems Regularly
For optimal cooling efficiency and performance, it’s essential to hire a licensed contractor to maintain your heating and cooling systems year-round. Homeowners can perform some tasks on their own, such as clearing debris from outdoor units and replacing air filters. However, seeking professional maintenance 1-2 times annually is crucial for checking ductwork and electrical components.
Utilize Appliances in Off-Peak Times
Instead of operating ovens, stoves, and dryers during the hotter afternoons, consider scheduling these activities for early mornings or late evenings. Many electricity providers designate peak hours from noon to 6 p.m., so using energy-consuming appliances outside this timeframe can help minimize energy expenses.
Consider Switching to an Energy-Efficient Heat Pump
The Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) encourages homeowners to invest in energy-efficient HVAC upgrades, including qualifying heat pumps that can enhance seasonal energy efficiency ratios. For example, heat pumps from Mitsubishi Electric offer energy-efficient cooling, potentially leading to cost savings and a smaller carbon footprint. These systems feature inverter or variable-speed technology that adjusts energy usage based on room capacity, and some homeowners have reported savings of up to $1,000 annually by transitioning to an all-electric heat pump.
Grill Instead of Bake
On hot days, opt for grilling to reduce energy consumption and lower air-conditioning expenses. Alternatively, consider using toaster ovens, air fryers, or slow cookers since they consume less energy than large conventional stoves. Get creative by using a chiminea for cooking pizza or experimenting with smoking meats as substitutes for using an oven.
Avoid Cooling Unused Spaces
A common mistake among homeowners is neglecting to adjust their thermostat while away. Whether spending a weekend at the beach or simply heading out for the day, running the air conditioning in an empty house can lead to excessive utility bills. Multi-zone, all-electric heat pumps from manufacturers like Mitsubishi Electric allow for individualized temperature settings in each room, enabling energy savings by not cooling empty spaces. Plus, with a smartphone app, you can manage settings remotely.
Invest in a Smart Electric Panel
By installing a smart electric panel in conjunction with an all-electric heat pump, homeowners can track and manage energy consumption both on-site and remotely with their smartphones, promoting improved efficiency and reducing utility costs.
Capitalize on Solar Energy with Solar Panels
The Office of Energy Efficiency & Renewable Energy highlights that just 90 minutes of sunlight hitting the Earth’s surface could fulfill the world’s energy needs for an entire year. Investing in solar panels not only can help lower energy expenses but also promotes sustainable living. Many utility companies and government entities, including the IRA, provide incentives to help lessen installation costs. Additionally, solar energy pairs effectively with all-climate heat pumps, which require minimal electricity to function.
Photos courtesy of Shutterstock
