Summer Tips : How to save electricity bill in summer
Last summer was terrible for us. We were almost homebound the whole summer as there was too much heat outside, and several home improvement projects were underway.
The result: HUGE electricity bill and unhappy hubby! That got me thinking!
Everybody loves summer, but not everybody loves the heat. In the middle of summer, temperatures outside can become scorching and unbearable. Cranking the air conditioning up as high as it'll go can help you cool off, but your utility bill will skyrocket. Luckily, some easy ways exist to stay cool and save money in the summer heat.
Try these tips to stay cool and save money in the summertime:
Keep curtain down
Keep curtains drawn during the summertime. Just ensure you get enough sunlight without adding heat to the house.
Stay Hydrated
Having an ice-cold beverage on hand at all times is a great way to stay cool. Many choose soda because it tastes great and seems to provide relief to your body. Unfortunately, sodas also deplete your body with the hydration it desperately needs in the intense heat of summer.
- Drink as much water as you can. Sports drinks can provide a change of pace and flavor, but your body needs as much water as possible to avoid heat exhaustion and other health issues that the summer can cause. Stay hydrated by drinking water throughout the day. Drink even when you don't feel thirsty because your body can't tell that it's dehydrated until it's too late.
- Alternatively, you can have freshly squeezed fruit juices or coconut water to keep you cool and healthy during summer.
- If you have a pet at home, make sure to provide plenty of fresh water!
Eat Nutritiously
An often-overlooked way to beat the heat is with a healthy diet. Think of the food you eat every day as fuel for your body, and you'll begin to make better choices about the types of foods you eat.
Eat plenty of fruits and vegetables
They give your body the vitamins to stay strong during the hot summer. They're high in water content and will keep you hydrated longer. In addition to fueling your body, cold fruit can be a delicious way to cool off after a workout or play in the hot sun.
Cool off with Water
The intense heat of summer doesn't have to keep you shut inside your home.
Swimming is a great way to beat the heat.
If you don't have your own pool, find out if your community has a public pool. If not, a gym membership with a pool can help you keep cool, have fun, and get in shape at the same time.
Even a hose or sprinkler in the backyard can provide hours of play in the cool, refreshing water. If you live near water, take advantage of the surf and sand of the beach for a cool afternoon with family and friends.
Increase the life of your AC and Fan by servicing them
Wash your A/C coils and drain pan to prevent bacteria and mold growth. Check the gas and fill it up if necessary.
Clean your home's fans, ledges, and vents with brushes or vacuum cleaners.
Use Fans
Fans are an effective way to cool a room without turning the air conditioning up.
Box and ceiling fans can provide extra cooling throughout your home and allow you to keep your thermostat set higher.
So your air conditioner doesn't work overtime. Keep a wide bowl filled with iced water under or in front of the fan for added coolness. It will help to cool the room faster.
Keep a small personal fan in your car when you are out and about; the heat is too much to bear.
Wear Light Clothing
Wear breathable, lightweight clothing when you go outdoors during the summer. Heavy clothing can cause your body to overheat much faster than it normally would. Make clothing choices that keep you cool and comfortable in the summer heat.
Slow down
Above all, remember to protect your health. If you begin to feel dizzy or lightheaded at any point, stop what you're doing and sit down. Find a cool spot indoors to rest until you feel like yourself again.
Heat stroke or other serious health consequences can result if you ignore your body's plea for rest from the heat.
You can beat the heat this summer with a little planning and some common-sense strategies. Protect your health while you enjoy all the recreation and fun the summer offers.