With gasoline and other prices rising, many people are feeling a pinch in their household budgets. Following some simple tricks can help keep your electric bill from being red hot this summer.
How cool should I keep my house?
In the heat of summer, it may be tempting to crank your air conditioner. But you can save big bucks by keeping your thermostat at 78 degrees or above. Raising your thermostat 1 degree will save you 3 percent to 5 percent in cooling costs. You can also raise your thermostat by a degree or two whenever you leave your home.
Another cooling technique is installing ceiling fans. They keep the air circulating, and let you set your thermostat even higher. And if you close curtains and blinds you can keep the midday sun from beating down into your home.
What about appliances?
If you’ve bought any major appliances in recent years, like refrigerators, dishwashers and washing machines, they have become far more energy efficient. But you can still cut costs there by turning the temperature in your refrigerator up a bit. Run the washing machine only when you have a full load, and try to avoid washing clothes on the hottest cycle. You can also dry clothes outside in the summer breeze, rather than running your dryer. When you use your dishwasher, run it when the load is full and then let the dishes air dry, rather than using the heated drying cycle.
What should I do with electronics?
Electronics are a major user of electricity, and often keep drawing on the power supply even when they seem to be shut off. One easy trick is to plug your computer, TV, VCR and similar devices into a power strip, and turn the power strip off when they’re not being used. Even simple things like unplugging your cell phone charger when it’s not in use can help add up.
About the Writer
Susan Ladika has been a writer and editor for 25 years. Her freelance work has covered everything from business to travel to science to international issues, and have appeared in such publications as Science, Town & Country, HR Magazine, Developer, The Wall Street Journal-Europe, The San Francisco Chronicle, and many others. She has also done extensive editing as a newspaper and wire service editor holding positions such as the Tampa Tribune Bureau Chief.
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