When the weather is heating up, your electric bill can go through the roof. There are lots of ways to reduce your summer electric bill; some are free, others are inexpensive and a few require the help of a local Miami electrician.
1. A whole-house fan allows you to remove hot air throughout your home. Installed in your attic, the fan will force the hot air out of your home through vents and draw in cooler morning or night air through windows.
2. Trees, tall shrubs and strategically located awnings or sail shades can shade your house, doors and windows from direct sunlight
3. Shorten the time your automatic cleaner and pool filter is in use. You can also replace outdated pool pumps with energy-efficient units that use far less electricity than the older pumps.
4. Lower your electric water heater’s temperature to 120 degrees Fahrenheit. Not only does this reduce your electric usage, but it prevents burns. Cover your heater with an insulation blanket and wrap your pipes with insulated tape to hold in heat.
5. If installing or replacing an air conditioning unit, locate it on the north side of your home or in a shaded window. If this isn’t possible, provide a means of shading the unit.
6. Make your home as airtight as possible. Leaks around windows and baseboards should be sealed with caulk. Drafty doors should have new weather stripping and caulked around the jams if air is leaking through them.
7. Clean air conditioning filters or replace them once a month. The buildup of dust and lint acts as an insulator and makes your air conditioner work much harder.
8. Do heat-producing chores when it’s coolest outside. Run the dryer and dishwasher early in the morning or late at night after it’s cooled down. The same is true for cooking, and if possible, use your microwave instead of using your range or oven.