As climate change drives hotter summers and more extreme weather events, energy efficiency is more important than ever. Rising temperatures lead to increased energy consumption, higher utility bills, and greater strain on power grids. Fortunately, with a few smart energy-saving tips for summer, you can stay comfortable while keeping energy costs in check. Here’s your summer checklist for saving money, reducing your carbon footprint, and preventing blackouts.
Improve your home insulation and ventilation
- Seal air leaks. Weatherstrip doors and windows to prevent cool air from escaping and hot air from entering your home.
- Use window coverings. Keep blinds, shades, or curtains closed during the hottest part of the day to reduce indoor temperatures by up to 10-15 degrees. Reflective window films or solar shades can provide additional protection.
- Ventilate the smart way. Use bathroom and kitchen exhaust fans to remove heat and humidity, but turn them off once they’ve done their job to prevent energy waste.
Optimize your cooling system
- Maintain your HVAC system or AC unit before summer starts. Some of the best summer energy-saving tips you can follow are to clean or replace air filters every one to two months, check for leaks, and schedule a seasonal professional tune-up service to keep your air conditioner running efficiently.
- Set your thermostat wisely. Consider setting your thermostat to 78 degrees Fahrenheit (26 degrees Celsius) when you’re home and higher when you’re away. Using a programmable or smart thermostat can help automate temperature adjustments and maximize savings.
- Use fans efficiently. Ceiling fans can make a room feel up to four degrees cooler, allowing you to raise the thermostat without sacrificing comfort. Just remember to turn fans off when leaving a room to save energy.
Reduce heat from appliances and electronics
- Cook outdoors or use energy efficient appliances. Grilling outside keeps your kitchen cooler and reduces the need for air conditioning. When cooking indoors, use a microwave, slow cooker, or air fryer instead of the oven to minimize heat production.
- Unplug devices. Electronics continue to draw power even when turned off. Unplug chargers, TVs, and other devices when not in use, or use a smart power strip to prevent “phantom loads.”
Be water wise
- Run appliances during off-peak hours. Use dishwashers and washing machines in the early morning or late evening when electricity demand is lower.
- Use cold water for laundry. Washing clothes in cold water can cut energy use by 90 percent compared to hot water cycles.
- Limit pool pump usage. If you have a pool, run the pump for just six to eight hours per day instead of continuously to reduce energy consumption.
By following this summer energy efficiency checklist, you can lower your energy bills while staying comfortable in the heat. As extreme summer temperatures become more common, prioritizing energy efficiency isn’t just about cost savings—it’s also about reducing strain on the environment and the electrical grid as well as ensuring a sustainable future.
Get your home ready for an energy efficient summer with Michigan Saves
Michigan Saves can help keep your energy bills down all year long. Our home and building financing can help you turn your home or business into a comfortable and efficient space with energy upgrades such as energy efficient windows, air sealing, HVAC systems, and solar photovoltaic panels. If saving money and energy is your goal, you’re in good hands. Get professional help from one of our authorized Michigan contractors in your area. Start saving with us today!
