Cut $235 off your energy bills with these 6 simple tricks—plus, the “layering” hack that saves $140 instantly!
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Summer is here, and with it comes the annual tug-of-war between staying cool and keeping your wallet from melting.
If you’ve ever opened your energy bill after a heatwave and felt your blood pressure spike, you’re not alone.
With climate change turning up the thermostat and inflation making every dollar count, it’s more important than ever to find smart, simple ways to save on energy costs—without sacrificing comfort.
At The GrayVine, we know that every penny saved is a penny earned (and maybe even a scoop of your favorite ice cream on a hot day).
That’s why we’ve dug deep into expert advice and added our own tried-and-true tips to bring you the ultimate guide to slashing your summer energy bills—by as much as $235 a year!
And yes, there’s a “layering” trick that could put $140 back in your pocket almost instantly.
Ready to keep your cool and your cash? Let’s dive in.
1. Let Ceiling Fans Do the Heavy Lifting
Air conditioning is a modern marvel, but it’s also a notorious energy hog. Enter the humble ceiling fan—a hero in disguise.
While fans do use electricity, they consume a fraction of what your AC does. By circulating air, they make you feel cooler, allowing you to set your thermostat a few degrees higher without breaking a sweat.
Pro Tip: Make sure your fan is spinning counterclockwise in the summer. This pushes cool air down and creates a gentle breeze. According to PG&E, this simple switch can save you about $15 a year. It may not sound like much, but every bit adds up!
2. Seal the Deal With Air-Tight AC Units
Did you know that a leaky window or poorly sealed AC unit can let precious cool air escape and invite hot air in? It’s like trying to fill a bucket with a hole in it!
Ensuring your AC units are properly sealed and windows are tightly closed can boost efficiency and save you around $20 annually.
DIY Alert: Check for drafts around your windows and AC units. Weatherstripping and caulking are inexpensive fixes that can make a big difference.
Also read: Stop overpaying! AC experts reveal the costly mistake adding hundreds to your energy bill
3. Change Those Air Filters Regularly!
A clogged air filter is your AC’s worst enemy. It forces the system to work overtime, guzzling more energy and driving up your bills.
Swapping out your air filter every month during heavy use keeps air flowing freely and your system running efficiently.
Savings: Up to $15 a year, according to the experts. Plus, your lungs will thank you for the cleaner air!
4. The Window “Layering” Hack: Your Secret Weapon
Here’s where the real magic happens. Adding layers to your windows—think blackout curtains, thermal shades, or even exterior awnings—can block out the sun’s relentless rays and keep your home significantly cooler.
This “layering” trick can save you a whopping $140 a year!
Bonus: Closing your shades during the hottest part of the day can tack on another $30 in savings. It’s as simple as pulling the curtains before you head out for your afternoon walk.
Source: TODAY / Youtube.
5. Keep It Clear Around the AC
Your AC unit needs room to breathe. If it’s surrounded by clutter, plants, or debris, airflow is restricted and efficiency drops. By keeping the area around your unit clear, you help it run smoother and save about $15 a year.
Yardwork Win: While you’re at it, trim back any shrubs or grass that might be crowding your outdoor unit.
6. Don’t Forget the Direction of Your Ceiling Fan
This one’s easy to overlook, but it’s crucial. In summer, your ceiling fan should spin counterclockwise to create a cooling breeze.
In winter, reverse it to clockwise to gently circulate warm air. Using your fan the right way can make your home feel up to 4 degrees cooler, letting you dial back the AC and save even more.
Extra Credit: More Ways to Save
Do you have a favorite trick for keeping cool without cranking up the AC? Maybe you swear by a certain type of curtain, or you’ve discovered a clever way to block out the sun. Share your tips, stories, and questions in the comments below!
If you’ve ever opened your energy bill after a heatwave and felt your blood pressure spike, you’re not alone.
With climate change turning up the thermostat and inflation making every dollar count, it’s more important than ever to find smart, simple ways to save on energy costs—without sacrificing comfort.
At The GrayVine, we know that every penny saved is a penny earned (and maybe even a scoop of your favorite ice cream on a hot day).
That’s why we’ve dug deep into expert advice and added our own tried-and-true tips to bring you the ultimate guide to slashing your summer energy bills—by as much as $235 a year!
And yes, there’s a “layering” trick that could put $140 back in your pocket almost instantly.
Ready to keep your cool and your cash? Let’s dive in.
Americans can save up to $235 a year on their energy bills with six simple steps, according to energy company PG&E. Image source: How to House / Youtube.
1. Let Ceiling Fans Do the Heavy Lifting
Air conditioning is a modern marvel, but it’s also a notorious energy hog. Enter the humble ceiling fan—a hero in disguise.
While fans do use electricity, they consume a fraction of what your AC does. By circulating air, they make you feel cooler, allowing you to set your thermostat a few degrees higher without breaking a sweat.
Pro Tip: Make sure your fan is spinning counterclockwise in the summer. This pushes cool air down and creates a gentle breeze. According to PG&E, this simple switch can save you about $15 a year. It may not sound like much, but every bit adds up!
2. Seal the Deal With Air-Tight AC Units
Did you know that a leaky window or poorly sealed AC unit can let precious cool air escape and invite hot air in? It’s like trying to fill a bucket with a hole in it!
Ensuring your AC units are properly sealed and windows are tightly closed can boost efficiency and save you around $20 annually.
DIY Alert: Check for drafts around your windows and AC units. Weatherstripping and caulking are inexpensive fixes that can make a big difference.
Also read: Stop overpaying! AC experts reveal the costly mistake adding hundreds to your energy bill
3. Change Those Air Filters Regularly!
A clogged air filter is your AC’s worst enemy. It forces the system to work overtime, guzzling more energy and driving up your bills.
Swapping out your air filter every month during heavy use keeps air flowing freely and your system running efficiently.
Savings: Up to $15 a year, according to the experts. Plus, your lungs will thank you for the cleaner air!
4. The Window “Layering” Hack: Your Secret Weapon
Here’s where the real magic happens. Adding layers to your windows—think blackout curtains, thermal shades, or even exterior awnings—can block out the sun’s relentless rays and keep your home significantly cooler.
This “layering” trick can save you a whopping $140 a year!
Bonus: Closing your shades during the hottest part of the day can tack on another $30 in savings. It’s as simple as pulling the curtains before you head out for your afternoon walk.
Source: TODAY / Youtube.
5. Keep It Clear Around the AC
Your AC unit needs room to breathe. If it’s surrounded by clutter, plants, or debris, airflow is restricted and efficiency drops. By keeping the area around your unit clear, you help it run smoother and save about $15 a year.
Yardwork Win: While you’re at it, trim back any shrubs or grass that might be crowding your outdoor unit.
6. Don’t Forget the Direction of Your Ceiling Fan
This one’s easy to overlook, but it’s crucial. In summer, your ceiling fan should spin counterclockwise to create a cooling breeze.
In winter, reverse it to clockwise to gently circulate warm air. Using your fan the right way can make your home feel up to 4 degrees cooler, letting you dial back the AC and save even more.
Extra Credit: More Ways to Save
- Upgrade to a Programmable Thermostat: Set it and forget it! Program your thermostat to raise the temperature when you’re out and cool things down before you return.
- Cook Smart: Use the grill or microwave instead of the oven to keep heat out of the kitchen.
- Unplug Devices: Electronics and chargers draw power even when not in use. Unplug or use a power strip to cut “phantom” energy use.
- Switch to LED Bulbs: They use less energy and produce less heat, helping keep rooms cooler.
Do you have a favorite trick for keeping cool without cranking up the AC? Maybe you swear by a certain type of curtain, or you’ve discovered a clever way to block out the sun. Share your tips, stories, and questions in the comments below!
