As much as summer is a season that people love and adore for its warm weather and fun activities, it’s also a time when energy costs and electricity bills creep up, putting a little extra dent in your wallet. Luckily there are ways to combat any possible increase in energy consumption.
We at SweepSouth aren’t only passionate about expert house cleaning and garden services, but also making sure our clients save wherever possible. Use the following energy-saving tips to make your summer a little less expensive, leaving you with more money to spend on summer activities.
Braai More Often
If you’re looking for ways to save energy during summer, cooking your food on the braai more often is a great option. Not only is it sometimes a healthier way to cook, but it also doesn’t heat up your kitchen and electricity bill the way cooking on the stove or in the oven does. And who doesn’t love eating outdoors in the summer? Whether you’re cooking for yourself or a group of friends, firing up the braai is always a good option. So next time you’re thinking about what to make for dinner, remember that the braai is your friend, just be sure to clean your braai before using it. Not only will it help you save energy, but it’ll also help you enjoy summer even more.
Check And Repair Your Air Conditioner
As the temperature rises, so does the likelihood of your air conditioner going on the fritz. Not only is this frustrating, but it can also be expensive if you’re not proactive about maintaining your AC unit. One of the best ways to save energy and money during summer is to regularly check and repair your air conditioner. A simple tune-up can make a big difference in how efficient your unit runs, and it can also help to prevent major issues down the road.
In addition, be sure to clean or replace your air filter at least once a month. A dirty filter will restrict airflow and cause your AC to work harder, using more energy in the process. By taking some simple steps to maintain your air conditioner, you can help keep your energy bills under control this summer.
Use Your Fans More Often
If you have the option of both, use fans instead of air conditioners. Fans use much less energy than air conditioners, so they’ll help reduce your power bills. They also don’t release harmful chemicals into the air like some air conditioners do. And if you’re worried about not being able to sleep without the hum of an AC, don’t be – there are plenty of quiet fans on the market that will do the job just as well. So next time you’re feeling hot and bothered, reach for a fan instead of the AC remote. Your wallet (and the environment) will thank you for it!
Cover Your Windows
Curtains, blinds, and shades are all great ways to reduce the amount of heat entering your home during the summer, leaving you with less of a desire to turn on your AC or fans. Curtains can be pulled closed to block out direct sunlight, and blinds and shades can be lowered to prevent heat from entering through windows.
In addition, covering windows with reflective materials can help to reflect heat away from your home. Not only will you reduce the amount of heat entering your home, but covering your windows can also help to reduce the amount of glare. Glare can cause eye fatigue and make it difficult to see. By reducing the amount of light entering your home, you can help to reduce the amount of glare. As a result, covering your windows is a great way to save energy and reduce the amount of heat entering your home.
Unplug Unused Appliances
As the weather gets warmer, we tend to rely more on our air conditioners to keep cool. With the added cost of your AC running, it’s a good idea to look elsewhere to save money. Did you know that leaving unused appliances plugged in can waste a lot of energy and drive up your electricity bill? It’s true!
Even when they’re turned off, appliances like TVs, coffee makers, and chargers continue to use a small amount of power. So this summer, save yourself some money by unplugging any appliances you’re not using. You’ll be surprised at how much it can help lower your energy bill. Plus, it’s one less thing to worry about when you’re out enjoying the summer sun.
With these-energy saving tips in mind, you’ll be able to enjoy a well-deserved summer without having to worry about the extra financial costs involved. One last tip we have to free up your summer schedule is to let the professional team at SweepSouth take care of your cleaning services, leaving you with more time to create memories with your loved ones.
