The Heat Wave: A Challenging Summer Ahead
“Excessive” was the term used by the National Weather Service (NWS) to describe the intense heat wave that hit the southern United States on the first day of summer. The weather forecast for Wednesday, June 21, mentioned this word seven times.
It seems that this summer will be particularly challenging, with high temperatures exacerbated by humidity and the looming threat of torrential rains, floods, storms, and tornadoes from West Texas to Florida, as warned by the NWS.
The situation is no better in Mexico, where deaths caused by the ongoing heat wave are already being reported.
However, for many families, the real challenge this summer will be dealing with the soaring electricity bills.
Xcel Energy, a regulated natural gas supply and electric utility based in Minneapolis, has shared some valuable tips to help people save money while staying cool. These tips range from installing programmable thermostats to utilizing ceiling fans.
Keeping Cool Without Breaking the Bank
According to Xcel Energy, maintaining a comfortable temperature at home can account for approximately half of the electricity bill during the summer. To save more, users can follow these recommendations:
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Open interior doors to improve air circulation.
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Use a whole house or attic ventilation system that draws in cool air at night and expels hot air during the day.
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Regularly change air conditioning filters and clean air conditioning coils to enhance efficiency.
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Keep curtains and blinds closed during the day.
Additionally, overall bills can be reduced by turning off lights and electronics when not in use, as well as replacing incandescent bulbs with energy-efficient LEDs that consume 75% to 80% less energy and last 15% longer.
Running washers, clothes dryers, and dishwashers with full loads and only during cooler hours of the day is another effective recommendation. This not only helps keep the house cooler but also reduces strain on the electrical grid.
Upgrade Your Appliances for Greater Savings
If your washing machine is over 10 years old, it may be time to consider a replacement, according to Energy Star, the program of the US Environmental Protection Agency. An outdated washer could cost you an extra $190 per year.
New Energy Star certified washers typically use 45% less water and 25% less energy.
However, upgrading appliances is not the only way to save money on laundry. Experts also recommend using the dryer on a long, low cycle known as the double L setting, which could save you over $70 annually, as suggested by IGS Energy.
Optimizing Air Conditioning Usage
When it comes to using air conditioners, Richard Fogal, a technician with almost 40 years of experience in the heating and cooling industry, advises changing the filter regularly. He also suggests turning off any humidifiers to reduce energy consumption.
“Filter changes are essential for an air conditioner to perform at its best. Also, if you have a humidifier running, turn it off to use less energy,” he suggested.
A common mistake Richard often sees among his customers is keeping the air conditioner off for most of the day and then turning it on at night. He warns that this approach will end up costing more and emphasizes the importance of installing a programmable thermostat.
According to Fogal, “These appliances are designed to maintain temperatures in your home, not drastically lower them. Having the air conditioning turned on earlier in the day and maintaining a consistent temperature throughout is both economical and efficient, making your home much more comfortable.”
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This content discusses the intense heat wave hitting the southern United States and Mexico, with a focus on the challenges it poses for families dealing with high electricity bills. Xcel Energy, a utility company, provides tips for saving money while staying cool during the summer, such as using programmable thermostats and ceiling fans. It also suggests strategies like opening interior doors for better air circulation, using ventilation systems, regularly maintaining air conditioning filters, and keeping curtains closed. The content also mentions additional ways to reduce electricity usage, such as turning off lights and electronics when not in use and using energy-efficient LED bulbs. Lastly, it suggests running appliances with full loads during cooler hours to keep the house cooler and reduce strain on the electrical grid.
What tips does Xcel Energy offer for families to save money on high electricity bills during a heat wave?
Xcel Energy offers the following tips for families to save money on high electricity bills during a heatwave:
1. Use a programmable thermostat: Set your thermostat at a higher temperature when you are away or asleep. Programmable thermostats can automatically adjust the temperature for you, saving energy and reducing costs.
2. Utilize natural ventilation: Open windows and use fans to create a cross breeze instead of relying solely on air conditioning. This can help to cool your home without using excess energy.
3. Use curtains or blinds: Close curtains or blinds during the day to block out sunlight and heat. This will help to keep your home cooler and reduce the need for air conditioning.
4. Optimize air conditioning usage: Set your air conditioner at a higher temperature, around 78°F or higher, to save energy. Also, make sure to clean or replace filters regularly to improve efficiency.
5. Limit heat-generating activities: During the hottest parts of the day, avoid using appliances that generate heat, such as ovens, stovetops, and clothes dryers. Opt for cooler alternatives like grilling outside or air-drying laundry.
6. Use energy-efficient lighting: Replace traditional incandescent light bulbs with energy-efficient LED bulbs. They use less energy and produce less heat, helping to keep your home cooler.
7. Utilize shading outdoors: Plant trees or install awnings to provide shade over windows and outdoor areas. This can help to reduce heat gain in your home and make outdoor spaces more comfortable.
8. Schedule energy-intensive tasks: Run appliances like dishwashers, washing machines, and dryers during off-peak hours, such as early morning or late evening. This may result in lower electricity rates and reduce the strain on the electrical grid.
9. Unplug electronics when not in use: Many devices continue to draw power even when not actively being used. Unplugging them or using power strips with on/off switches can help eliminate this “phantom” energy usage.
10. Take advantage of Xcel Energy’s energy-saving programs: Xcel Energy offers various energy-saving programs and incentives for their customers. These can include rebates for energy-efficient appliances or upgrades, energy audits, and tips tailored to your specific needs.
By implementing these tips, families can reduce their electricity usage and save money on high energy bills during a heatwave.
Great tips! Saving energy and avoiding expensive bills in the summer is crucial. These simple yet effective tips will definitely help us achieve just that.
Great article! These simple and practical tips will definitely help me save energy and cut down on my summer bills. Thank you for sharing!