Summer in Oklahoma can be intense, with scorching heat that makes staying comfortable a top priority. But with the rising temperatures comes a spike in utility bills, especially when running the A/C to escape the heat. Don’t worry, though—there are plenty of simple, effective ways to save on your summer utility bills without sacrificing your comfort.
Consider following these simple tips to help keep both you and your wallet cool:
- Seal your gaps and cracks. You might not realize it, but small gaps around windows, doors, and even electrical outlets are prime culprits for wasting energy. If cool air is escaping or warm air is sneaking in, your air conditioner has to work overtime. A simple solution is weatherstripping to seal the cracks around windows and doors. It’s an easy DIY project and the best part? It’s super affordable and can significantly reduce your energy costs.
Pro Tip: Consider caulking cracks in walls or along window sills that might not be as visible but still let air leak out. You’ll be amazed at how much this can lower your energy usage.
- Upgrade your thermostat to a smart one. We live in the digital age—so why not use technology to your advantage? A smart thermostat can help you save a ton on your utility bills. It learns your habits and adjusts the temperature accordingly, so you’re not wasting energy when you’re not home or sleeping. Plus, you can control it remotely from your phone, so you’ll never forget to turn the A/C off when heading out.
Quick Fact: Studies show that installing a smart thermostat can reduce energy bills by 10-15%.
- Use ceiling fans to your advantage. Ceiling fans are great for cooling your space without cranking up the air conditioner. Many people don’t realize how much they help, especially when you set them to rotate counterclockwise—this direction creates a wind-chill effect that makes the room feel cooler.
Bonus: Run your fans in the evening when the temperature drops and you don’t need your A/C as much. This simple step can help keep you cool and reduce your electricity usage. Just be sure to turn them off when you leave the room.
- Optimize your A/C use. When it comes to air conditioning, the best strategy is to avoid blasting it all day long. Instead, focus on cooling your home during the hottest parts of the day, and then give it a break in the cooler evenings and early mornings.
Best bet: Set your thermostat to 78°F when you’re home; if you’re away, bump it to 82°F.
- Close the curtains or blinds during peak heat. The sun beats down hard on Oklahoma during the summer, and that’s a lot of free heat that can raise your cooling costs. Keep your blinds or curtains closed during peak sunlight hours to block out the heat and prevent your home from turning into an oven.
Strategy: Consider investing in blackout curtains or thermal drapes to block heat and help maintain a consistent indoor temperature. This simple trick can keep your A/C from overworking and help your home stay cooler without adding extra cost.
- Switch to energy-efficient appliances. If you still use old, outdated appliances, your utility bills are probably higher than needed. Energy-efficient appliances are designed to use less energy, saving you money in the long run. Look for appliances with an Energy Star rating, which guarantees they meet high energy-efficiency standards. Additionally, swap out old light bulbs for LED lights, which use up to 75% less energy and last 25 times longer than traditional incandescent bulbs. The initial investment might be slightly higher, but the savings over time is worth it.
Bright idea: And if you’re short on cash, consider a low-rate personal loan or credit card to get what you need.
- Use natural ventilation. Open windows on cooler mornings and evenings to let in fresh air and create a cross-breeze. This can be especially helpful when the temperature outside drops below 80°F but is still warm enough to need some airflow.
Hint: Be mindful of outdoor humidity levels; you don’t want moisture indoors. But when the weather is right, it’s a great way to keep your space cool for no extra cost.
- Do your laundry efficiently. Opt for cold water cycles instead of hot water (when possible) to reduce water and energy consumption. If you’re using a dryer, clean the lint trap regularly for better airflow, which helps clothes dry faster.
Another trick: Hang your clothes outside to dry when possible. Oklahoma has plenty of sunny days that are perfect for line-drying your laundry.
- Take advantage of off-peak hours. Electric companies often charge lower rates for electricity during off-peak hours (typically at night). You can save on your monthly bills by shifting activities like laundry, dishwashing, and other energy-heavy tasks to these times.
Check this out: Your utility company may offer appliance timers, so you don’t have to remember to run them during the best times. It’s worth the call.
- Be mindful of water usage. Summers can strain your water bills, especially if you regularly water your lawn. To conserve water, consider switching to drought-resistant landscaping or planting native plants that require less water.
Smart idea: Using a rain barrel to collect water for your garden can save money and help conserve the state’s water resources.
Following these simple, affordable tips allows you to keep your summer utility bills in check without sacrificing comfort. Oklahoma summers can be hot, but that doesn’t mean your utility bills have to skyrocket. With a few simple changes and a little attention to detail, you’ll enjoy a cool home all season long—and still have money left over for fun summer adventures.
