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Summer is upon us, and that usually means higher energy bills. And while we can’t help needing to crank the AC when it’s 120 degrees outside, we can take certain steps to curb the hike.
According to an NV Energy spokesperson, “a common misconception is that energy rates increase in the summer. While the company does make quarterly adjustments to adjust for fuel costs, your total bill is largely based on the amount of energy you use.”
Less energy equals lower bills. The utility company encourages the following energy-saving measures that can lower your summer energy bills up to 25%.
ADDED COST TIPS
• Some blinds or shudders are better than others at blocking light and outside temperatures. The cost of installing these types of blinds varies depending on the material and size of your windows. Home Depot gives an estimate of $20 to $35 per square foot for standard shudders.
• For those who don’t already have them, ceiling fans are somewhat essential here in our desert. The fans themselves start around $60, and installation costs an average of $250.
• Install a smart thermostat. Ranging from $100 to $300, smart thermostats are connected to the internet and can automatically adjust the temperature to optimize how your cooling system works. NV Energy offers smart thermostats and installation for free for customers with central AC and internet access. According to the company, it can save customers up to $100 on their energy bill each year.
• Annual maintenance is one of the best ways to ensure your cooling system is functioning efficiently (i.e. not leaking and costing you more money to use). A typical tune up costs an average of about $250, and there might be added costs to replace anything. NV Energy offers free or low-cost AC tune-ups for qualifying customers.
NO COST TIPS
• One of the most basic things you can do—turn off lights and appliances and unplug them when not in use. Some appliances and devices pull energy even when turned off.
• In addition to the outside air, sunlight shining into windows can accelerate the heating of your home in the summer. NV Energy recommends closing blinds and drapes during the day to keep the heat out and give your AC a break.
• When you’re not home, set your thermostat to five to 10 degrees warmer than when you are home. This saves the AC from expending the energy to cool your home when no one’s there.
• NV Energy also recommends getting a free energy assessment, which can be done online or at your home. Assessments offer personalized insights on how to save on your energy bill year-round.
• Some customers may even qualify for free appliance replacement by NV Energy. Based on income eligibility requirements, the program provides energy-efficient appliances, including refrigerators, dishwashers, washers and driers, to replace less efficient appliances.
LOW COST TIPS
• Starting at about $19, a room fan can come in all price ranges and, when strategically placed, can help keep you cool even when it’s warm in your home.
• When shopping for light bulbs, reach for a package of LED bulbs instead of incandescent bulbs. Although LED bulbs are a few cents more expensive than incandescent bulbs, they last longer and have lower energy use than traditional bulbs, which helps lower your energy bill.
• Not just your AC, but also appliances like your refrigerator work harder in the summer to keep things cool. Keep it running efficiently by checking the seal. You can check the seal by closing a piece of paper in the refrigerator door. If it comes out easily with no resistance, the seal could probably stand to be replaced.
• Caulking and weather stripping windows and doors is another low-cost way to keep the outside air out and inside air in.
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