Turn the Lights Off on Your High Electric Bill

There are several ways you can avoid that high electric bill this summer. You don't have to be broke to keep cool. You can see results as soon as your next electric bill once you start implementing these ideas.

Some things are pretty common sense, such as turning off the lights. Not having every light on in the house is always a good rule. I have always heard that it takes more energy to turn a light off then to just keep it off, but I am not sure about that. Perhaps if you never turn it on then you won't have to turn it off! I really enjoy using the natural light from the sun. I keep my windows open and enjoy letting the sun shine through.

Speaking of windows, another money saving idea is to open your windows to let the breeze come through. This is especially great in the spring and early summer. If you bring out fans, which is even another great idea, it helps even more in helping the cool air to circulate.

Something you may not have ever thought to do is to unplug everything that you are not using. I tried this once and I did see a difference on my bill. When appliances and other things are plugged in they are still using energy even when not in use or turned off. When I decided to try this I unplugged phone chargers, the microwave, blow dryer, lamps and anything I could see that was plugged in that I was not using. After doing this for awhile I saw a drop in my electric bill. If you are not home all day you could even unplug tv's and computers. Just try it and see!

I have always heard that every degree above 72 saves you money. I really believe this to be true. Usually at night in the summer we will try to keep our thermostat on 75-77 with the fans on. I have noticed when I keep the thermostat a little higher it keeps my electric bill a little lower. This also works in the winter time.

Another way that I have just recently been introduced to to save money is in investing in solar panels. In this case you will have to spend money to save money in the long run. Solar panels work by transforming sunlight into electricity. For more information on how this works you can check out this website solarhome.org

Being married to an air conditioning and appliance technician has enlightened me to the importance of keeping your air conditioning and heating system in check. It is important that it is working to it's best capability. A worn out system will have to work twice as hard to keep the house cool thus using more energy which will cost you more money.

Something else that may be draining your energy is cracks and drafts in your home. Do a check on all windows, doors and some walls for any cracks that may be letting the cool air escape. Caulking is very inexpensive and will save you money over time.

With a little time and effort you can stay cool this summer without spending a lot of your hard earned money.