Staying cool in the summer is a common concern, especially in Texas, but it doesn’t have to mean draining your energy budget. Taking proactive energy-saving steps is the best way to cut energy costs in any season.
Here are ten energy-saving tips for summer in Texas.
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Monitor Your Thermostat
Many modern homes now have programmable or automated thermostats. Either way, you can use your thermostat to save energy this summer. Use it to set a schedule that controls and limits how much energy you consume for a certain period.
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Cut Back on Indoor Cooking
One of the disadvantages to cooking indoors is that it can trap a lot of heat inside, which makes your air conditioning unit work harder. Using a toaster oven consumes less heat than a conventional oven.
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Air-dry Your Clothes
Another way to reduce energy use is to plan your laundry for certain times of the week. When using the washer, use cold water as much as possible. Consider air-drying laundry on a clothesline outside in the sunlight.
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Reduce Energy Use During Peak Times
Be aware that the hottest times of the day often have the highest demand on the electrical grid. Since utility companies charge higher rates during peak hours, try to limit energy use during this expensive time.
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Use Shade for Cooling
Many homeowners are fortunate to have trees in their yard, which provide shade and cooling in the summer. Three strategically placed trees around a home can produce energy savings of up to 30 percent.
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Cover Your Windows
Window coverings such as shades or blinds help block out UV rays and lower the heat. Keep your windows covered on hot days while you’re away from home. It will also protect your furniture from sunlight, preserving its color from fading.
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Buy Energy-Efficient Bulbs
Choose either energy-saving compact fluorescent or LED bulbs when stocking up on light bulbs. These modern bulbs are designed to be more energy-efficient and last longer than traditional bulbs.
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Conserve Energy When Away
Be sure your thermostat is set at a comfortable temperature when you leave your home. If you have a smart thermostat, it will automatically adjust the temperature to an optimum level. Turn off electrical appliances when not in use.
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Wear Lighter Shades or Loose-Fitting Clothes
Wearing light-colored or loose clothing will absorb the sweat and keep you cool, even without air conditioning.
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Maintain Your HVAC System
Be sure to clean the air filter in your HVAC system regularly. Allowing dirt and debris to build up causes more strain on the system, consuming more energy.
Use these energy-saving tips for summer to beat the high cost of air conditioning in Texas. Contact our experts at Reata Insurance Group if you are looking for a customized insurance solution for your personal needs.
