The electric bill is prone to fluctuate each season and is known to cost more during the summer months when the air conditioner is in use more. Fortunately, there are a few ways to reduce your energy usage and save more money while keeping your interior setting cooler. Here are a few tips to saving energy during the summer months.

Use Overhead Fans

Instead of relying on your HVAC system to keep your home cool, you can save money by using overhead fans on days that aren’t scorching hot. Overhead fans use less energy and can make you stay cool at night when the temperatures drop.

Set the Thermostat

Setting the thermostat will allow you to avoid overusing your air conditioner when you’re not home. Set the thermostat above 70 degrees to save extra money during the season. Each degree that you reduce your air conditioner will allow you to save three percent on your electric bill.

Hang Blackout Curtains

Blackout curtains are effective at blocking heat and sunlight from entering the home when you want to reduce your usage of your HVAC Hampton VA. Keep the curtains closed during the day when it’s the warmest. You can also plant shrubs or trees close to the windows to shade the area.

Use a Power Strip

Power strips are known to reduce the energy usage in the home and will make it easy to turn off all of your devices at once for added convenience. You’ll also want to eliminate vampire power by unplugging idle electronics with microwaves, televisions, and printers that are not in use throughout the day. Computers should also be shut down, which are the biggest energy users in most buildings. Avoid using the screensaver and opt for turning the monitor off at night, which won’t affect its lifespan.

Switch to LED Bulbs

You can continue to light up your home at night while using less energy by using LED bulbs. LED bulbs use 75 percent less electricity and are more energy efficient compared to incandescent bulbs. They are also known to last 25 times longer, which can save money over time.

You don’t have to feel uncomfortable in your home during the summer season to save money on your electric bill. By making a few changes to save extra energy, you can reduce your carbon footprint and enjoy shedding hundreds to thousands of dollars off of your bill.