How to Reduce Cooling Bills in the Summer

As daily high temperatures dip back into the 70s this week, many are now getting their electric bills for the recent hot weather. But don’t worry, summer’s not over. The Missouri Public Service Commission offers several suggestions on how to save on energy use and reduce utility bills.

The advice, though, comes as the Commission has approved energy rate hikes totalling an average of 33% from 2015 to 2025. Much of the increase has been caused by a move away from clean coal-fired plants to costly wind and solar farms.

Still, regardless of where you live, the following tips may help you save on your next bill.

Cooling

• Make sure furniture and draperies are not blocking cooling outlets. Blocked outlets restrict air circulation, overwork cooling equipment and increase operating costs
• Use ceiling fans to assist in cooling. In the summer, blades should rotate counterclockwise when viewed from below
• Make sure the air conditioner filter is clean, and replace filters as needed.
• Consider installing a smart thermostat, which is a Wi-Fi-enabled device that automatically adjusts the home’s heating and cooling, allowing for remote control and energy savings. It connects to the home’s internet network and can be managed through a smartphone app or web interface.
• Consider whether a time-based rate plan that adjusts electricity prices based on the time of day the energy is used is a good option for the household. For additional information on available rate plans, contact your utility provider.

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Living Areas

• Caulk and weather-strip doors and windows that leak air.
• Add insulation and seal air leaks to help keep cool air inside.
• Close drapes, shades and blinds during the day to keep sunlight from heating up the home.
• Turn off lights when not needed.
• Turn off computers, monitors, printers and televisions during periods of non-use. These devices use energy even when in stand-by mode.

Kitchen/Laundry

• Vacuum refrigerator coils and check for frost buildup in refrigerators and freezers, which causes appliances to work harder.
• Try to wash full loads in the dishwasher and use the short cycle. Consider washing clothes in cold water with a cold-water detergent. Use the microwave, toaster oven, slow cooker, broiler oven or other energy-saving appliances for cooking food.
• Turn down the temperature on the water heater.
• Cover pans when cooking on a stove top and use exhaust fans periodically to reduce indoor humidity.
• Avoid using extension cords with appliances, because they can reduce efficiency.

–Alan Goforth | Metro  Voice