Conserving energy during summer can prove difficult because everyone wants to stay indoors to escape the heat. This translates into electrical appliances like fans, TVs, air conditioners, and microwaves running for an extended period of time. In turn, the high demand for energy exerts pressure on the energy grid, causing utility companies to pass down costs to you—the consumer—in the form of higher electric bills.

Saving electricity during summer comes down to maximizing your home’s cooling systems and introducing efficiency. Most importantly, you need to understand the factors that go into determining your apartment’s electric bill in the first place. These factors include the size of your apartment and the energy-consumption levels of your appliances.

8 Hacks on How to Save on Electric Bill During Summer

1. Check Out Your Cooling Systems

When was the last time you checked your air conditioner? Almost never? The thing is, cooling systems need maintenance to function properly. After running for a long time, an air conditioner is likely to accumulate dirt. When this happens, it has to triple the efforts initially needed to lower the heat, leading to increased energy consumption. Unclogging your AC unit filter alone can save you up to 15% of energy usage. So make sure you clean, check, and change your air filters regularly to maintain proper airflow and performance.

2. Sleep Closer to the Ground

Are you familiar with the fact that hot air rises and cool air sinks? Well, here’s somewhere to put it to use. If you have an adjustable bed or don’t mind bringing your mattress to the ground, this is one of the smartest ways to save on electric bills. Also, if you’re living in an apartment or house with more than two floors, opting for a lower story or a cool basement can eliminate the need to keep your AC or fans on at night.

3. LED Light Bulbs Help Save on Electric Bills

Being smart with your home’s lighting can save you tons of money. LED bulbs save a lot more money compared to regular incandescent lighting bulbs. Also known as compact fluorescent light bulbs, these bulbs have earned an Energy Star label. Besides eating up 90% less energy than regular bulbs, LED lights also last 15 times longer. What a steal!

4. Stay Outdoors Longer

There’s never been a better time for a romantic picnic date with your boo or a dip in the pool. Just by staying outside a little longer, you can save on your electricity bill significantly. Just ensure you switch off all your appliances and lights when you leave.

Oh, and don’t forget to bring sunscreen!

5. Maximize Utility Companies’ Off-Peak Hours

Lean in closer for a little secret: utility companies actually charge less for the same amount of electricity at night. During these hours, most people are asleep, hence lessening the demand for energy. As a result, you’ll pay less for more. How is this relevant for saving electricity during summers? Well, start running your large appliances like laundry machines and dishwashers at night for financial relief.

6. Become a Plant Parent

Not sure how you save on electric bills using plants? It turns out, filling your apartment with greenery introduces shade, thereby, lowering the temperatures. While the effect might be subtle, the humidity released in the air will tone down the heat a bit.

7. Optimize How You Do Laundry

Your washing machine and dryer are notorious for eating away at your home’s energy costs. How do you combat this during summer when your clothes are drenched with sweat and your laundry needs increase? Start by maxing out your loads and using the cold setting on your machine. Eliminating the need to heat water as you do laundry will help you save significantly on your electricity bills.

And with the sun scorching outside, why not try line drying? If this is an option for you, you won’t need to use a dryer.

8. Get Creative

Lastly, use your creativity! For instance, draw the blinds during the day to prevent the hot rays from streaming in. Other hacks include raising your AC thermostat to about 78 degrees, installing a solar water heater, opting for cold showers when it’s super hot, and using fans in place of the AC.

There you go! These tips will work magic if you’ve been seeking ways on how to lower your electric bill. If you’re also considering moving apartments to somewhere cooler, or with flexible rules to allow you to make summer adjustments, Roomi can help you do that! Roomi can also help you find a compatible roommate to share your electricity bill with, along with other living costs. How cool is that?