Ways to conserve energy this summer

As temperatures rise in the Hoosier state, so do energy bills while your air conditioner keeps you cool. After being outside in Indiana’s humidity and heat, one of the best feelings is going inside and immediately getting hit by A/C. But the more you blast your house with the wonderous cool air, the more your bill may be at the end of every month this summer. So as heat waves move through, remember these quick tips on ways in which you can conserve energy this summer and save money while doing so.

Time for a good ol’ family cookout…outside

One way to conserve energy during the summer is to try and stay out of the kitchen as much as possible. When you begin to use the oven and stove it naturally causes the room to get warmer, leading to you lowering your thermostat. So, instead of cooking inside every night, try to alternate days when you cook inside and when you grill your meals outside. Make sure if you do grill you abide by these grilling tips! Obviously, not everyone can grill; in that case try to make something fresh like different kinds of sandwiches, salads, or maybe try a pre-cooked meal from your local grocery store.  Either way, will keep your kitchen clean and cool while conserving energy in your home.

Standing, box and ceiling fans can provide a lot more than just white noise

Portable and ceiling fans are a great way to stay cool while keeping your thermostat steady. Airflow circulating your home during the day, evening and at night can help keep you and your family cool.

Keep the sunshine out and your windows and doors closed

Invest in sun-blocking blinds and curtains for your windows in order to keep the sun’s rays from shining in your home. Make sure that sliding glass and screen doors are fully shut and windows are sealed. Having your windows and doors accidentally opened during the day is an easy way to lose valuable cool air that can end up adding up on your energy bill.

Be smart when it comes to your thermostat

If you find yourself heating up in your home during the day, don’t hurry to turn your thermostat down 10 degrees. Instead, gradually see what temperature feels good to you. Try to keep your thermostat above 72 degrees during the summer in order to optimize cooling energy. If you can, try 78 degrees during the summer and you may end up saving a lot of money during the summer.

Weather says cool and cloudy? Time to open your windows back up

Keep an eye on your weekly forecast to see if there will be many days that may be cooler than others. If there is a day that the temperature drops, take this opportunity to turn your A/C off and open your windows for some natural airflow throughout your home. This is a great way to take advantage of Indiana’s irregular weather and save money. Watching the weather can also help you decide when it is time to grill out.

Indiana is known for its fluctuation in weather temperatures. Acknowledging these tips for conserving energy during the summer can save you money; money that you could do something fun while enjoying your summer with family and friends. Take the time to understand and apply these tips to your daily lives; it can help your family; your home and you stay cool throughout the summer.

*The information in this article was compiled from a variety of sources and is intended to provide helpful tips only.