Ways to Save Energy as Summer Temperatures Rise

Longer days and warmer weather often bring increased energy use. As temperatures rise, Jackson EMC offers easy solutions for saving energy in the summer. Saving energy helps conserve water and keep Lanier Full.

Set your thermostat to 78 degrees.

Jackson EMC recommends keeping your home’s thermostat set at 78 degrees in the summer. Consider switching to a cost-effective,  programmable smart thermostat to help keep your home cool and comfortable.

Turn off lights, appliances and tools when not in use.

As you use more energy throughout the day, cut back where you can. Remember to turn off lights and devices you aren’t using to reduce energy use and save money in the long run. Unplug devices not used frequently. When devices are plugged in but not being used, the phantom power can account for up to 10% of electronics’ total energy use in your home.

Close blinds and drapes.

Even simple steps like closing blinds and drapes in the summer can help reduce energy use. Keeping the sun out can help keep your home cool without having to increase air conditioning use.

Reduce fan use.

Ceiling fans are great for cooling off, but they don’t make your home’s overall temperature any colder. You can save energy by turning off fans when you leave a room. When you’re using your ceiling fan, make sure it’s running counterclockwise in the summer.

Use heat-producing appliances sparingly.

Appliances that produce significant heat, like ovens, dishwashers and dryers, should be used in the early mornings or in the evenings when temperatures outside tend to be cooler. Also, consider using a slow cooker or toaster oven more often, instead of the oven. If you use the oven, keep the door closed while cooking as the temperature drops by as much as 25 degrees every time you open it to check on food. These small steps can help reduce energy use and maintain a comfortable temperature inside your home, reducing the need for air conditioning use.

Be sure to run full loads in your  washer, dryer and dishwasher to maximize efficiency.

Replace air filters.

Jackson EMC recommends checking your air filter each month. Replacing dirty air filters with new, clean filters can typically save 5-15% on your utility bill. Visit jacksonemc.com/filter to learn more about Jackson EMC’s filter change program.

Be water-wise.

Check for water leaks around your house. A leaking faucet isn’t just wasting water; it’s also wasting electricity for your water heater to warm the water. Also, set your water heater thermostat to 120-130 degrees. As a safety precaution, shut off the electricity to your water heater before adjusting the temperature. Switch to LED bulbs. Take initiative by purchasing LED bulbs for your home. The U.S. Department of Energy reports that LED bulbs use only 20-25% of the energy used by traditional incandescent bulbs while also lasting 15 to 20 times longer.

Enjoy the weather this summer while being mindful of your energy use. For more ways to reduce energy use and save money, visit jacksonemc.com/waystosave.

Jackson Electric Membership Corporation, the largest electric cooperative in Georgia and one of the largest in the nation, is headquartered 50 miles northeast of Atlanta in Jefferson, Ga. The cooperative serves more than 240,000 meters on 14,482 miles of energized wire. For more information, visit jacksonemc.com.