Electricity bills can take up a significant portion of your monthly expenses. The good news? There are simple yet effective ways to lower your electricity usage and save money, especially when focusing on how to save electricity in the summer.
Below, I’ve compiled 31 smart energy-saving tips—some are completely free and easy to follow. Let’s dive in!
1. Turn Off Unnecessary Lights
LED bulbs consume up to 75% less power than traditional incandescent bulbs.
Teach your kids this practice too.
If this is hard to control, consider motion sensor lights to automate the process.
2. Use Natural Daylight
Sunlight is free and benefits your health.
Additionally, it enhances our overall well-being.
If you’re out working on weekdays, take advantage of daylight on weekends.
3. Switch to LED Bulbs
LED bulbs use up to 75% less energy compared to traditional incandescent lighting.
Furthermore, they last longer.
A pack of 24 Sylvania LED bulbs costs around $23.46, making them a cost-effective choice.
4. Use Major Appliances During Off-Peak Hours
Run your dishwasher, washing machine, and dryer after 7 PM on weekdays or anytime on weekends to save on electricity costs.
Check with your utility provider for specific off-peak hours.
5. Unplug Unused Electronics
Even when turned off but still plugged in, devices continue to consume energy.
This phenomenon is known as phantom energy or vampire power.
Unplug items like chargers and appliances when not needed.
6. Use Smart Plugs
Worried about leaving appliances on? Smart plugs allow you to turn them off remotely via smartphone.
You can connect your iron, TV, or lamps to smart plugs and control them easily using Alexa or Google Assistant.
7. Invest in Energy-Efficient Appliances
Look for Energy Star-certified appliances like refrigerators, dishwashers, and washing machines. These use significantly less electricity than older models.
8. Switch Off Air Conditioners When Away
If you’ll be out for more than 2-3 hours, switch off your AC to save energy.
This simple step can lower your bill.
9. Choose Ceiling Fans Over Air Conditioning
On mild days, ceiling fans can replace your AC, cutting cooling costs by up to 99%. Set fans to spin counterclockwise in summer and clockwise in winter for better air circulation.
10. Use Window Blinds and Curtains
Blinds can reduce solar heat by 60%, keeping your home cooler in summer and reducing AC usage — a must for anyone looking at how to save electricity in the summer.
11. Check for Air Leaks and Weatherstripping
If you feel drafts around windows and doors, apply weatherstripping to seal gaps. This reduces heating and cooling costs.
12. Don’t Block Radiators
Keep radiators clear of furniture or curtains to let heat flow freely.
13. Close Unused Room Vents
Closing floor registers in unused rooms ensures more efficient heating and cooling in occupied spaces.
14. Switch to a Microwave Instead of Using Oven
Microwaves use much less energy than traditional ovens, making them a cheaper option.
15. Peek Through the Oven Window
Each time you open the oven door, you lose 6°F of heat.
Use the oven window to monitor your food.
16. Hibernate Your Laptop
Switch off laptops when not in use or put them in hibernate mode to conserve energy.
17. Install a Smart Thermostat
Smart thermostats like Ecobee or Nest let you program schedules and adjust temperatures remotely, saving money on heating and cooling.
18. Use Dimmer Switches
Dimmers allow you to adjust brightness levels, reducing energy use and extending bulb lifespan.
19. Wash Clothes in Cold Water
Washing with cold water works well for most loads and uses less energy than hot water.
20. Run Full Loads in Dishwashers & Washing Machines
Running full loads reduces the number of cycles, cutting water and electricity use.
21. Clean Your Dryer’s Lint Filter
A clogged lint filter reduces dryer efficiency. Clean it after every load to improve performance.
22. Air-Dry Clothes in Summer
Let your clothes dry outside naturally in warm weather — an effective way how to save electricity in the summer.
23. Clean Clogged Air Ducts
Professional duct cleaning improves heating and cooling efficiency, reducing energy waste.
24. Check the Seal on Fridges & Freezers
Faulty seals leak cold air, making your fridge work harder. Test seals by placing a piece of paper between the door and the fridge—if it slides out easily, it’s time for a replacement.
25. Lower Your Water Heater Temperature
Set your water heater to 120°F (49°C) to prevent unnecessary heating costs.
26. Shut Off Your Water Heater During Vacations
If you’re away for an extended period, switch off your water heater to avoid wasted energy.
27. Replace Furnace Filters Regularly
Dirty furnace filters force your system to work harder, leading to higher electricity costs.
28. Take Shorter Showers
Take showers lasting 10 minutes or less to cut down on water use and energy expenses.
29. Install Low-Flow Showerheads
These reduce water and heating costs without compromising water pressure.
30. Use Solar-Powered Devices
Charge phones and small electronics with solar-powered chargers like the ADDTOP solar charger.
31. Track Your Energy Usage
Use an energy monitor like Sense Energy Monitor to track power consumption and identify areas to save.
Final Thoughts
Small daily adjustments and using energy-efficient tech can greatly reduce your electricity costs. If you’re wondering how to save electricity in the summer, start by focusing on cooling habits and unplugging unnecessary devices.
Which of these tips will you try first? Let us know in the comments!