We knew it was coming, but maybe not as fast as it did. Yes…we’re talking about the Texas summer heat. With multiple 100+ degree days and “real feels” that exceed 120 degrees, we could be looking at a record hot summer and possible rolling blackouts.

Here are some tips for conserving energy which will also lower your monthly bill.

1. Unplug all appliances and electronics not in use

It may be easier to keep everything plugged in all the time, but only plugging in the devices or appliances you are using, as you are using them, could actually save you several hundred dollars a year. It also makes your electronics less susceptible to damage if there’s a power surge…i.e. rolling blackouts.

2. Upgrade to a smart thermostat

If you don’t at least have a programmable thermostat, get one. Smart thermostats are a little more efficient because they use a combination of scheduling, geofencing and motion sensing to know when to turn the temperature up or down. However, setting a programmable thermostat and forgetting it (i.e. don’t keep adjusting it) will save you money and reduce energy usage.

3. Adjust the temperature when nobody is home

The U.S. Energy Department suggests setting your thermostat to somewhere in the 80s. Clearly these people live nowhere near Texas. Are we right? If that is too warm for you, a good rule of thumb is raising the thermostat by seven to 10 degrees for eight hours a day. That will save you up to 10% a year on your energy bill.

4. Limit your hot water usage

We may not use as much hot water in the summer, but we still have to shower and wash dishes and clothes. Your water heater accounts for about 18% of the energy consumed in your home. Take shorter or cooler showers, and wash clothing in cold water as often as possible.

5. Turn your lights/fans off and switch to LED bulbs

Keep the lights and fans off in rooms nobody is occupying and switch all the of the lightbulbs in your home to LED bulbs for optimal energy conservation.

And remember, the more people who conserve energy during peak times, the lower the chances of rolling blackouts in Texas this summer. For those home projects to help with Summer Energy readiness, contact our Home Equity department for information on a Home Equity loan.