With summer approaching fast, everything is starting to heat up including our houses. And along with the temperatures rising, so are our heating bills which definitely is ‘not cool’. So if you’re trying to stay cool this summer, planning out your energy saving practices are a must. Here is a step by step list that will help you lower your energy costs so you can spend more on doing what you love this summer.

Monitor Thermostat

• The best way around this one is investing in a programmable thermostat which will allow it to keep your house warmer than normal when you’re away and then automatically lower when you return home and need cooling. 

• Avoid setting your thermostat at a colder setting when you return home. It won’t cool your house down any faster, but it will bump up those energy bills.

Change Lightbulbs to LED

• Incandescent bulbs waste energy and emit heat. If you make the swap to LED bulbs, it will reduce both your cooling load and energy consumption.

Cook Smart

• Ovens generate a lot of heat, so consider different methods of cooking, such as an outdoor grill, slow cookers, air fryers or stovetop to keep your kitchen from overheating.

Close Curtains and Blinds

• Sunlight peaking through your windows will increase temperatures immensely. Keeping your blinds or curtains closed during the hottest hours of the day will keep the cool in. 

• For a greater way to reduce heat, consider thermal or blackout curtains for added insulation.

Shading

• Trees provide significant amounts of shade and reduce the amount of direct sunlight, it might be time to put that green thumb to use.

• If you don’t have any trees around your house to protect you from sunlight, investing in external awnings, exterior solar screens or adjustable shading may help if you have an intense amount of sunlight shining through your home.

Unplug

• Unplug equipment when you’re away or not in use. Electric chargers, televisions and audio/video equipment all use electricity and produce heat when not in use.

Seal Leaks

• Check for any air leaks that may be lingering around windows and doors. Simply weatherstripping or caulking these can prevent the warm air from getting in and the cool air from escaping. This ensures less work for your AC.

Utilize Fans

• Fans won’t create cold air necessarily but they will work as a circulation for any cold air and provide a wind-chill effect, which can help make a room feel cooler. Make sure you leave the fan off when you leave the room or your home.

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As for Treasure Valley Dwellers and buyers, energy saving programs are well within reach. Idaho Power offers a variety of energy efficient equipment whether you’re looking to upgrade your current home or planning new construction. Their extensive list of programs and support makes it easy to find the perfect fit for your home, so you can stay comfortable while keeping costs down.

Existing Homes

1. Ductless Heat Pump 

2. Central Air Conditioner

3. Ground Source Heat Pump

4. Open-Loop, Water Source Heat Pump

5. Air-Source Heat Pump

6. Duct Sealing

7. Electronically Commutated Motor

8. Evaporative Cooler

9. Hybrid Heat Pump Water Heater

10. Smart Thermostat

11. Whole-House Fan

New Construction

1. Air-Source Heat Pump

2. Central Air Conditioner

3. Ground Source Heat Pump

4. Open-Loop, Water-Source Heat Pump

5. Hybrid Heat Pump Water Heater 

Saving energy this summer doesn’t have to be an entire home makeover. Small changes to your everyday life can lead to noticeable savings and better habits all year round. Whether you’re settling into your new dream home or looking to cut costs in your current one, these steps will ensure energy efficiency. It’s a win for your wallet and the planet!