Looks like we are halfway through another sweltering summer! While summer is usually synonymous with beach trips, lounging by the pool and plenty of sun, for the homeowner it also comes with getting plenty of use from your air conditioning unit, and extra water to fill up those kiddie pools and keep those petunias alive. This increased usage can lead to spikes in your utility bills, potentially catching many first-time homeowners off guard. In this blog post, we'll explore effective strategies to manage electric and water bills during the summer months, ensuring you stay cool without breaking the bank.
Understanding Summer Utility Usage
During the summer, the demand for electricity skyrockets as air conditioners work overtime to keep homes cool. According to the U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA), residential electricity consumption peaks during the summer months, primarily due to cooling needs. On average, air conditioning alone can account for more than half of a household's summer utility expenses. In fact, the EIA has already seen a 17% increase this summer from 2021 and the average electric bill is set to hit $173 for June, July, and August.
Water usage also tends to increase during summer as families water lawns, fill swimming pools, and take more showers to combat the heat. According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), the average family's water use can increase by 40% during summer months compared to other times of the year, leading to higher water utility bills.
Tips for Managing Electric and Water Utility Bills
1. Optimize Your Cooling System
Set Thermostat Efficiently: Set your thermostat to the highest comfortable temperature, ideally around 78°F (26°C), and use fans to circulate air.
Use Programmable Thermostats: Programmable thermostats can automatically adjust temperatures based on your schedule, optimizing energy use when you're away or asleep.
2. Improve Home Efficiency
Seal Air Leaks: Using weather-stripping and caulk to seal gaps around doors, windows, and ductwork to prevent cool air from escaping and hot air from entering.
Insulate: Proper insulation in attics and walls can significantly reduce the workload on your cooling system. You can also install insulated curtains or blinds to further reduce heat gain through windows during sunny days.
3. Change Cooling Habits
Use Fans Wisely: Ceiling fans can make a room feel cooler, allowing you to set your thermostat higher without sacrificing comfort.
Close Curtains and Blinds: Keep blinds and curtains closed during the hottest parts of the day to block out sunlight and reduce cooling needs. This small action can noticeably reduce the need for your air conditioner to run continuously.
4. Manage Water Usage
Water Efficiently: Water lawns and gardens early in the morning or late in the evening to minimize evaporation.
Fix Leaks: Check faucets, toilets, and irrigation systems for leaks and repair them promptly to avoid water waste.
5. Energy-Efficient Appliances
Upgrade to Energy Star: If your budget allows, energy-efficient appliances, such as refrigerators, washing machines, and dishwashers, consume less energy and water, saving you money in the long run.
6. Be Mindful of Peak Hours
Shift Energy Use: Many modern appliances, such as dishwashers and washing machines, have a delay start option. Set these appliances to start their cycles during off-peak hours, such as late at night or early in the morning, to take advantage of lower electricity rates.
Conclusion
Managing electric and water utility bills during the summer months requires a combination of smart habits, mindful consumption, and, if within budget, energy-efficient upgrades. By implementing these strategies, you can keep your home comfortable while reducing your environmental footprint and saving money on your utility bills.
Remember, staying informed about your energy and water usage is crucial. Consider tools like the mobile app Virwalt, which can help you monitor and manage your consumption more effectively. Visit www.virwalt.com sign up for our waitlist to learn how Virwalt can empower you to take control of your utility costs year-round.
References
U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA). "Residential Energy Consumption Survey (RECS)." www.eia.gov/consumption/residential
Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). "WaterSense." www.epa.gov/watersense
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