How to Save on Energy Costs in the Phoenix Valley
Summer in the Phoenix valley can be expensive for homeowners. The high summer temperatures can wreak havoc on houses and cause extremely high energy bills. There are many ways you can save money on home energy costs. While you might have to spend a little money to upgrade or repair a few things, these tips will help you over time. And, as always, Response Crew is ready to help with all types of house repairs to help lower your energy bill. You can call us 7 days a week at 480-525-9825.
Tips to Lower Home Energy Costs During the Phoenix Summer
- Set your thermostat higher when you are out of the house. A thermostat with a timer is an even better option, because it gives you total control over usage. In addition, keep inside air vents clear from furniture and other objects to ensure fluent air flow throughout the home to regulate proper temperature.
- Be sure to change your air conditioner filters. This ensures clean air flow and circulation throughout your house. It is best to inspect the air conditioner filters periodically throughout the summer, as dust can accumulate quickly and affect the efficiency of the air flow.
- Keep the blinds and windows closed during the day. This minimizes the amount of heat that enters your home. Perhaps getting drapes or curtains to help shelter the home from heat could be a good idea. Opening windows at night or on cooler days, as well as ceiling and whole-house fans can also help conserve energy costs.
- Unplug appliances and electronics when not in use; most new electronics use electricity even when switched “off.” These things include items like TVs, DVD players, and computers. Plugging them into power strips and just turning off the power strips is an easier solution.
- Unplug and recycle any extra appliances such as outdoor refrigerators.
- Set your water heater to 120ºF if it’s not there already. This not only helps reduce home energy costs, but also slows mineral buildup and corrosion in your water heater and pipes.
- Lighting makes up about 10% of home electricity costs. You can save up to 80% of that energy by simply replacing your traditional incandescent light bulbs with CFLs and LEDs. They also last longer, so even after summer passes, you’ll still be saving money.
- If you don’t already, using a high-efficiency air conditioner can reduce your energy use by 20% – 50% and save money.
- Properly insulating and air sealing your home is just as important to regulating a consistent temperature. Be sure to have your ducts tested and have any leaks or restrictions repaired. If you have an attic, make sure that it is at least R-30.
- If you have a swimming pool, you can reduce your heating bills by installing a high efficiency or solar pool heater or using a pool cover. You can also slowly reduce pool filtration time by 30 minute increments daily. Keep on reducing the time as long as the water appears clean. You may find you only need to run your pool filter six hours a day. Install a timer to control the length of time that the pool pump cycles on.
Plan Ahead to Save
Energy costs add up over time. The money you invest now will save you in future costs. It is important to get repairs done before the Phoenix summer gets too hot. If you are noticing your home energy bill rising, give us a call at 480-525-9825.
