How to Save on Your Energy Bill During the Summer

Summer months can lead to higher energy bills, especially with increased kitchen and laundry room appliance usage. However, you can significantly reduce your electricity costs with a few strategic changes and energy-efficient habits. 

Here are practical tips to help you save on your energy bill during the summer while keeping your home comfortable and efficient.

Choose Energy-Efficient Appliances

One of the most effective ways to save energy is by investing in ENERGY STAR® certified appliances. These appliances are designed to use less energy without sacrificing performance. Consider upgrading to:

• Energy-efficient refrigerators that maintain cooling with less energy consumption.

• Dishwashers with eco-friendly cycles that use less water and power. Some modern models even feature auto-open doors to naturally air-dry dishes, reducing the need for energy-consuming heat cycles.

• High-efficiency washers and dryers that reduce energy and water use with every load.

• Self-cleaning ovens can help improve efficiency by maintaining optimal performance and reducing the need for frequent manual cleaning.

Optimize Refrigerator Usage

Your refrigerator runs 24/7, making it one of the biggest energy consumers in your kitchen. Here’s how to maximize its efficiency:

• Keep it full: A full fridge retains cold better, but avoid overpacking, which blocks air circulation.

• Set the right temperature: The ideal fridge temperature is 37-40°F and 0°F for the freezer.

• Check the seals: Worn-out door seals let cold air escape, causing the appliance to work harder. Replace them if necessary.

• Let food cool before storing: Placing hot food directly in the fridge raises the internal temperature, making it harder to cool down.

• Clean condenser coils: Dust and debris can make your fridge less efficient. Clean coils every few months.

Be Smart with Dishwasher Use

Dishwashers can be energy efficient when used correctly. Here are some tips to help your dishwasher run more efficiently.

• Run full loads: Wait until the dishwasher is full to maximize water and energy use.

• Air-dry dishes: Skip the heated dry cycle and opt for air drying. Some models even offer auto-open door features that naturally air-dry dishes once the cycle is complete.

• Use eco-friendly settings: Many dishwashers have energy-saving settings that reduce water and heat usage.

• Run it at night: Energy rates can be lower during off-peak hours.

Cook Smarter to Reduce Heat and Energy Use

Cooking generates heat, which can make your AC work harder. Save energy by:

• Using small appliances like air fryers, microwaves, and toaster ovens for smaller meals.

• Avoiding the oven during the hottest parts of the day.

• Batch cooking meals to minimize appliance usage.

• Using lids on pots and pans while cooking helps retain heat and cook food faster, which reduces energy use and keeps your kitchen cooler during the summer.

• Grilling outdoors to keep excess heat out of the kitchen. If you need a grill, the summertime is the perfect opportunity to invest in a new grill and save on energy bills.

Efficient Laundry Habits

Laundry can consume a lot of energy, especially in summer. Here's how to minimize its impact:

• Wash with cold water: Modern detergents clean as well in cold water, saving energy.

• Air-dry when possible: Use an outdoor clothesline or indoor drying racks.

• Dry full loads: Maximize efficiency by drying full but not overloaded loads.

• Clean the lint filter after every cycle to improve efficiency.

• Use moisture-sensor settings: These automatically shut off the dryer when clothes are dry.

Schedule Appliance Use Wisely

Scheduling out your chores can offer more than just convenience but can also help you lower your energy bills.

• Run major appliances during off-peak hours to take advantage of lower energy rates.

• Avoid using heat-generating appliances during the hottest times of the day to reduce strain on your air conditioning.

Maintain Your Appliances Regularly

Regular maintenance helps appliances run efficiently and last longer. Here are some tips on cleaning and maintenance.

• Spring cleaning: Deep clean all your appliances in the spring to ensure they run efficiently for the summer.

• Check for leaks in dishwashers and washing machines.

• Clean filters and vents in dryers to ensure airflow.

• Inspect refrigerator seals and clean coils regularly.

Invest in Smart Appliances for Long-Term Savings

Smart appliances offer more than just convenience—they can help you save energy and money over time. Smart appliances ensure that your systems are operating at peak efficiency by monitoring energy consumption and providing alerts for maintenance issues. For example:

• Refrigerators can alert you if temperatures fluctuate, helping avoid food spoilage and wasted energy.

• Washing machines can notify you of an imbalance or a leak, preventing potential water waste.

• Smart ovens can optimize cooking times and temperatures, reducing energy use.

• Dishwashers can suggest eco-friendly settings based on the load type.

By addressing minor problems early, smart appliances can help you avoid costly repairs and ensure your appliances last longer, making them a valuable investment for long-term energy savings.

Find Energy-Efficient Solutions at Mountain High Appliance

Upgrading to energy-efficient appliances is a smart investment that can significantly reduce your summer energy bills. At Mountain High Appliance, we offer a wide selection of efficient washing machines, dryers, ovens, dishwashers, and refrigerators for sale to maximize performance while minimizing energy consumption.

Visit one of our appliance stores in Colorado Springs, Glenwood Springs, Littleton, Louisville, or Denver to explore appliances that can help you save on your energy bill. Our experts are ready to help you choose the perfect options for your home.

Related readings from our blog:

• Top Energy Star-Rated Dishwashers for 2024

• Energy-Efficient Home Tips for Reducing Your Utility Bills

• Smart Appliances for Smart Meters

FAQs About Lowering Energy Bills in the Summer

1. How often should I clean my refrigerator coils to maintain efficiency?

It's recommended to clean refrigerator coils every six months to ensure they operate efficiently. Dust and debris can cause the appliance to work harder, increasing energy usage.

2. Does the location of my appliances affect energy efficiency?

Absolutely. Keeping appliances like refrigerators away from heat sources (like ovens or direct sunlight) helps them maintain optimal efficiency and reduces unnecessary energy consumption.

3. How can I save energy when preheating my oven?

Only preheat when necessary and for the shortest time possible. Many modern recipes don't require long preheating, and some smart ovens can optimize this process for better efficiency.

4. Are auto-sensor dishwashers more energy efficient?

Yes, dishwashers with auto-sensor technology adjust the cycle length and water usage based on the soil level of dishes, ensuring minimal energy and water consumption.