A single degree change in your thermostat can affect your energy bill more than you might think. Your cooling costs drop by 2% just by raising the thermostat 1°C during warm weather. This simple adjustment makes summer energy saving a breeze.
This piece offers affordable summer energy saving tips to keep your home comfortable without breaking the bank. These strategies help you stay cool while managing energy use – from cutting phantom energy waste to smart thermostat tweaks and home improvements.
Cutting Phantom Energy Use at Home
Your phone charger plugged in all day might seem harmless, but that little adapter quietly drains your wallet. Phantom energy (also known as vampire power or standby power) is electricity that devices use even when they’re turned off or in standby mode.
This hidden power drain adds up quickly. Standby power makes up 5-10% of residential energy use and could cost American households up to $100 each year. Spanish households face even higher costs, with phantom power taking up 7-11% of their total electricity bills. The Natural Resources Defense Council’s study revealed that devices left on around the clock cost US households about $165 annually.
These phantom energy culprits are hiding in your home:
Televisions and cable boxes (can use over 50 watts when off)
Desktop computers and printers
Chargers for phones, laptops, and electric toothbrushes
Kitchen appliances with digital displays
Gaming consoles
Devices with always-on displays or LED lights
You can easily curb this energy waste with some simple solutions. The quickest way is to unplug devices you’re not using. Power strips with on/off switches help control multiple devices and work great for hard-to-reach outlets.
Tackling phantom energy waste helps you save on electric bills and supports energy conservation efforts. It’s a practical approach that benefits both your wallet and the environment.
Smart Thermostat and Cooling Adjustments
Your thermostat’s strategic adjustment ranks as one of the best ways to save energy in summer. The Department of Energy reports that a 7-10 degree change from your usual setting for eight hours daily can cut heating and cooling costs by 10% yearly. This small change adds up quickly.
Smart thermostats make saving even easier. These Wi-Fi devices handle temperature adjustments on their own to maximize efficiency. A certified ENERGY STAR smart thermostat can help you save $100 each year if your heating and cooling bills run high. Yes, it is true that some homeowners cut their climate control costs by 20% annually.
Window treatments make a big difference too. Reflective blinds can block up to 45% of heat when fully closed. The slats on east and west windows should point upward to bounce sunlight away from your home. This simple change reduces your AC’s workload and saves energy all summer long.
Home Upgrades That Make a Difference
Your best defense against rising summer energy costs lies in permanent home upgrades. These investments save money during hot months and keep delivering benefits throughout the year.
Your water heater ranks as the second-highest energy user at home. A simple adjustment from 140°F to 120°F can cut your energy usage by nearly 25%. This change brings three key benefits: it lowers scalding risk, reduces sediment buildup that extends your water heater’s life, and creates energy savings of more than $400 each year. Water tank boosters can help homes that need to balance health safety with scalding risk. They keep tank temperature at 140°F while delivering lower temperatures at the tap.
Conclusion
Your HVAC services in Fresno experts know this allows you to focus on what really counts – creating lasting memories with loved ones. These temperature management techniques will turn your gatherings from temperature battles into perfectly balanced celebrations.
Ready to experience the maximum comfort and efficiency for your HVAC needs? Contact your HVAC contractor in Fresno, Maximum Air today at (559) 222-0733 and let our expert team take care of all your heating and cooling requirements. Don’t settle for anything less than the best – choose Maximum Air for superior service, reliable solutions, and unmatched customer satisfaction. Call us now and discover why we are the trusted choice for HVAC services in Fresno.
