Hot Month, Cool Tips: Save Energy in July
July is here bringing sunshine, barbecues, pool days, and yes, those sweaty, sticky afternoons that make you want to crank up your A/C. Saving energy in summer heat doesn’t mean sacrificing comfort. With a few smart energy-saving changes, you can keep your home cooler, reduce your energy usage, and have a lighter environmental impact.
Here are some easy ways to save energy this July without giving up your chill:
Set It and Forget It
Your thermostat can be your best summer sidekick. Aim for 78°F (25–26°C) when you’re home and a few degrees higher when you’re out. Every degree you raise your A/C can save you up to 3% on your cooling costs. Pro tip: A programmable thermostat makes this a no-brainer.
Shade is Your Friend
Block the heat before it comes in! Close your blinds or curtains during the hottest part of the day, especially for windows that get direct sun. Want bonus points? Reflective shades or blackout curtains can dramatically reduce indoor temps.
Fan Club
Ceiling fans are a family favorite in the summer. They don’t cool the air, but they help your body feel cooler by moving the air around. Just remember to turn them off when you leave the room. They’re great for comfort, not energy savings when no one’s around. Pro tip: In the summer, run the ceiling fan counterclockwise to create a cooling breeze.
Flattering Natural Light
Still using incandescent bulbs? They give off heat and suck up more power. Replace them with LEDs and turn off the lights in empty rooms. Natural sunlight in summer? It’s free, flattering, and on-trend.
Grill More, Bake Less
Using your oven can heat your house and your energy usage. Embrace outdoor cooking or quick, no-bake recipes. Your kitchen and your comfort level will thank you.
Unplug Energy Vampires
Even when you’re not using them, electronics like chargers, TVs, and game consoles can suck up energy, like energy vampires. Unplug them or use a smart power strip to automatically cut the waste.
Check Your A/C Filter
A dirty air filter makes your system work harder and less efficiently. Clean or replace it every 1–2 months during peak use to keep cool air flowing and costs low.
Laundry Smarts
Wash clothes in cold water, and if you can, hang them outside to dry. Nothing says summer like the smell of sunshine-dried sheets!
