Five Tips to Help Manage Your Utility Bill This Summer

Reducing energy consumption and saving on utility bills can be challenging during the summer, especially when temperatures soar. However, these simple strategies can help keep your energy costs in check:

1. Be Mindful of Peak Electricity Hours In many areas, electricity rates are higher during certain peak hours, typically late afternoon to early evening. To save on energy costs, try to use electricity outside of these peak periods whenever possible.

2. Pre-Cool Your Home Instead of letting your home heat up during the day and then blasting the air conditioner when you return, keep your thermostat at a moderate setting throughout the day. This method will make it easier to maintain a comfortable temperature and reduce the strain on your AC during peak hours.

3. Close Blinds and Curtains Blocking out direct sunlight by closing blinds and curtains during the hottest parts of the day is a simple, yet effective way to keep your home cooler and reduce the need for air conditioning.

4. Run Major Appliances at Off-Peak Times Avoid using energy-intensive appliances like washers, dryers, and dishwashers during peak electricity hours. Instead, run them during off-peak times to save on your energy bill.

5. Eliminate 'Energy Vampires' Even when not in use, many electronics and appliances continue to draw power. Unplug devices when they’re not needed, adjust power settings, or use a power strip to easily disconnect multiple items at once. This can significantly reduce your energy consumption.

Extra Tip: Utilize Community Cooling Centers If extreme heat becomes unbearable, consider visiting a local cooling center. Many communities offer free, air-conditioned spaces, such as libraries and community centers, where you can escape the heat.

By following these tips, you can help reduce your energy usage and keep your utility bills more manageable during the hot summer months.