Top 10 Summer Energy-Saving Tips
Whitney Lazo
I feel at home here in the Madison area where I lived over half of my life and became a badger, but I also feel at home in Peru where my family is fro...
I feel at home here in the Madison area where I lived over half of my life and became a badger, but I also feel at home in Peru where my family is fro...
Saving energy during the summer in Wisconsin can help reduce utility bills and lessen the strain on the power grid. By making a few practical adjustments, you can keep your home comfortable while minimizing energy consumption. Read more for some practical tips to save money and stay cool during the hot summer months!
1. Optimize Your Air Conditioning
Set Thermostat Wisely: Keep your thermostat at 78°F when you're home and higher when you're away.
Use Programmable Thermostats: Set the temperature to automatically adjust based on your schedule.
Regular Maintenance: Clean or replace air filters every month to ensure your AC runs efficiently.
Seal Leaks: Ensure doors and windows are sealed properly to prevent cool air from escaping.
2. Improve Home Insulation
Insulate Attics and Walls: Proper insulation helps keep your home cooler and reduces the workload on your AC.
Weatherstrip Doors and Windows: This prevents cool air from leaking out and hot air from entering your home.
3. Use Energy-Efficient Appliances
Upgrade to Energy Star Appliances: These use less energy and can significantly reduce your power consumption.
Limit Use of Heat-Generating Appliances: Avoid using the oven or stove during the hottest parts of the day. Use a microwave or grill instead.
4. Enhance Natural Ventilation
Ceiling Fans: Use ceiling fans to help circulate air. Make sure they are set to rotate counterclockwise in the summer.
Cross Ventilation: Open windows and doors on opposite sides of your home to create a cross breeze.
5. Manage Sunlight Exposure
Use Blinds and Curtains: Close blinds or curtains during the day to block out the sun and keep your home cooler.
Reflective Window Films: Apply these to windows to reduce heat gain.
6. Efficient Water Heating
Lower Water Heater Temperature: Set your water heater to 120°F to save on heating costs.
Insulate Water Heater and Pipes: This reduces heat loss and saves energy.
On Demand / Heat Pump Water Heaters: Consider upgrading your water heater. Both options save energy compared to natural gas water heaters.
7. Reduce Lighting Costs
LED Bulbs: Replace incandescent bulbs with LED bulbs, which use less energy and generate less heat.
Use Natural Light: Take advantage of natural daylight as much as possible to reduce the need for artificial lighting.
Pro tip: Visit FocusOnEnergy for your free LED lighting starter pack! 👀
8. Smart Landscaping
Plant Shade Trees: Strategically plant trees around your home to provide shade and reduce cooling costs.
Install Awnings or Shutters: These can help block direct sunlight from entering your home.
9. Energy-Saving Habits
Unplug Devices: Unplug electronics when not in use to avoid phantom energy consumption.
Laundry and Dishwashing: Run full loads and use cold water when possible. Avoid using these appliances during peak heat hours.
10. Energy Audit
Professional Energy Audit: Consider having a professional conduct an energy audit of your home to identify areas where you can improve efficiency. Click here to learn more. ⬅️
By implementing these energy-saving tips, Madison residents can stay cool and comfortable throughout the summer months while also cutting down on energy costs. Not only will these practices help you save money, but they also contribute to a more sustainable and eco-friendly lifestyle. Embracing energy efficiency in your home reduces the strain on the local power grid and helps the environment by lowering your carbon footprint. Whether you're making small changes or investing in larger home improvements, every effort counts towards creating a more energy-efficient and cost-effective living space.
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