How To Lower Your Electric Bill in the Summer in Scituate, MA

Scituate has a pleasantly mild climate with summer temperatures reaching the mid-80s. However, an increase in humidity can leave you feeling hot and sticky. Running your cooling system can provide relief, but increased air conditioning usage can lead to higher electricity bills. 

Our experienced electricians in Scituate, MA, know how to lower your electric bill in the summer without compromising your comfort. Continue reading to learn more.

Seal Up Drafty Doors and Windows

Many residences in Scituate have a similar problem: drafty windows and doors. Heat transfer between indoor and outdoor air can cause your cooling unit to overwork itself to compensate for the loss of conditioned air. 

Unfortunately, draft windows and doors, along with loose baseboards and electrical outlets, aren’t always easy to identify. If you have concerns about air leaks, consider scheduling an energy audit. The service finds hidden air leaks and provides recommendations on sealing them. 

Get Professional HVAC Maintenance

HVAC units are among the home appliances that consume the most energy. Learning how to lower your electric bill in the summer starts with knowing the importance of HVAC maintenance. When these energy-efficient appliances run at peak efficiency, they last longer and maintain temperatures better without overconsuming energy. 

Essential heating and cooling maintenance tips include:

• Clear plants, debris, and other obstructions around your outdoor condenser unit. 
• Replace the air filter at least once every 90 days. 
• Clear drain lines to avoid water buildup and mold. 
• Schedule biannual HVAC tune-ups from local heating and cooling professionals. 

Invest in a Programmable Thermostat

Your property’s thermostat plays a crucial role in maintaining a comfortable indoor climate. Consider installing a programmable unit to create heating and cooling schedules quickly and efficiently. With this feature, you can adjust your air conditioner’s temperature when nobody is home and then turn it back down when everyone returns from work or school.

For ultimate control, invest in a smart, programmable thermostat with Wi-Fi capability. That way, you can control your home’s temperature remotely using a mobile device.

Regardless of your thermostat choice, knowing how to operate it will help you keep your energy costs relatively low. The general summertime temperature recommendation is 78 degrees when people are inside the property. Adjusting it up or down a few degrees can impact your comfort as well as your electricity expenses. 

Use Ceiling Fans

Do you have to run your air conditioner constantly to keep cool in Scituate’s summer heat? No, you don’t! If your house has ceiling fans, they can help keep your home cool and comfortable without increasing your monthly utility bills.

A ceiling fan uses significantly less energy than an air conditioner, yet it can make a room feel up to ten degrees cooler than the temperature on the thermostat. During the summer, run your ceiling fan in a counterclockwise rotation. That way, the fan can pull up cooler air and create a cool breeze for the entire room.

Insulate Your Scituate Home

Without adequate home insulation, it can be tough to maintain a comfortable indoor environment while keeping your energy bills reasonable. Without insulation in key areas, indoor and outdoor air can mix, leading to temperature imbalances inside your Scituate home. 

Consider installing or updating your attic insulation to prevent heat from your roof from seeping indoors and making your house warmer. Weatherstripping your doors and using draft stoppers can also boost your property’s energy efficiency. 

Keep Indoor Heat at Bay

Did you know that your everyday habits and household items could contribute to heat generation? The more heat inside your Scituate residence, the more frequently your air conditioner will run. 

Incandescent light bulbs generate a surprising amount of heat. They’re not only energy inefficient, they also keep rooms hot. It’s better to invest in modern LED bulbs that are energy-efficient and produce less heat. 

Your oven, dishwasher, washing machine, and dryer are also major contributors to indoor heat. Try to limit your cooking to cooler days, and use your microwave or outdoor grill more often. Run your other major appliances at night when the temperature drops and peak electricity hours are over.