Simple Ways to Save on Summer Energy Costs

Keeping your home cool during summer doesn’t have to break the bank. Here are eight strategies to help you save on energy bills:

1. Optimize Your Thermostat: Set it higher when you're away or asleep, and lower it only when needed. Consider investing in a programmable thermostat for automated efficiency.
   

2. Enhance Home Insulation: Improve insulation in your attic, walls, and floors to keep cool air inside. Seal gaps around windows and doors with weatherstripping to prevent heat from infiltrating.
   

3. Upgrade to Energy-Efficient Appliances: Replace older appliances with Energy Star-certified models, which use less energy. Look for high-efficiency options for air conditioners, refrigerators, and washing machines.                                                              

4.  Consider a GoGreen Home Energy Loan from MCCU: Matadors Community CU provides accessible GoGreen Home Energy Loans* through the GoGreen Home Energy Financing program, requiring no equity from participants. With GoGreen, you can finance cool roofs, insulation and air sealing and much more. Visit this link for details.                                                                                                                                  

5. Utilize Fans and Ventilation: Use ceiling fans to circulate air and create a wind-chill effect. Open windows during cooler parts of the day and use exhaust fans in kitchens and bathrooms to expel heat and humidity.
   

6. Adjust Daily Habits: Minimize the use of heat-generating appliances like ovens and dryers during the hottest hours. Instead, opt for grilling outdoors or air-drying clothes.
   

7. Schedule HVAC Maintenance: Regularly clean or replace air filters in your air conditioning unit to ensure optimal performance. Arrange professional maintenance annually to keep the system running efficiently.
   

8. Harness Natural Shade: Plant trees or use awnings and curtains to shade windows from direct sunlight, reducing the need for cooling indoors.
   

By incorporating these strategies, you can reduce energy consumption and costs while maintaining a comfortable home environment throughout the summer. Start implementing these changes today to enjoy savings and contribute to environmental sustainability.

*Based on approved credit. Refinancing of existing MCCU GoGreen Home Energy Loans not eligible. Contractor must be approved by the GoGreen Home Energy Financing Program, visit gogreenfinancing.com for more details. Restrictions may apply. Visit matadors.org for more details. Equal opportunity lender.