With summer temperatures on the rise, energy bills usually follow suit. Here are a few ways you may be able to reduce some of the higher energy costs associated with warmer weather.

Purchase blackout curtains to keep your home cooler.
An easy way to potentially cut down on energy costs is by purchasing blackout curtains. Available in most large retail stores, these curtains limit the amount of sunlight that can enter a room, helping to keep heat out. Without the additional heat coming in, the room is more likely to stay cooler and can possibly lessen your energy costs.

Invest in energy-efficient appliances.
Consider investing in energy-efficient appliances to cut down on the cost of electricity this summer. Appliances with Energy Star ratings are a good choice as these products have been proven to help save on energy costs. These appliances, from washing machines to refrigerators, can help you spend less on electricity and may even help you qualify for rebates from power companies, potentially saving you even more.

Ensure maximum air conditioner efficiency with routine maintenance.
Performing routine maintenance on your air conditioner may help in reducing energy costs as well. Be sure to change the air filter and clean the coils regularly to help in extending the life of your air conditioner. You may even want to consider paying a professional to give your air conditioner a tune-up periodically. Doing this routine maintenance may help in the longevity of your air conditioner and increase its durability.

Program your thermostat to a higher temperature when you aren’t home.
Before you leave the house, be sure to set your thermostat a few degrees warmer than you do when you’re home to give your air conditioner a bit of a break. Not only can this help lower your electricity bill as you’ll be using less energy to run the air conditioner, but you’ll also be helping to increase the life of your air conditioner. You can even purchase products that will allow you to adjust your thermostat at specific times each day.

Look for meal alternatives to avoid heating up your home.
When planning your meals this summer, consider substituting cold or grilled foods for warm entrees made in the oven. Sandwiches are an easy and convenient dinner option that can help save on energy costs, as they don’t require the use of an appliance to create. Another alternative to hot meals prepared in the kitchen are grilled meals made outside.

Save energy by turning off lights and unplugging appliances when not in use.
Most people are aware that you can save on your electric bill by turning off lights when they aren’t in use, but did you know that you could also save by unplugging your appliances? According to the Natural Resources Defense Council, consumers spend almost $200 each year on idle appliances that are plugged in, but not in use. By unplugging your toaster or coffee maker when they aren’t in use, you could potentially save on your energy bill.

Consider weather-stripping your home to lower energy costs.
If you are searching for additional ways to lower your energy costs, consider utilizing weather-stripping. Weather-stripping is a product that can be placed around movable objects in your home like a door or window, which will help in preventing air leaks. During the summer months, that means less hot air coming in your home, which could decrease the amount of time the air conditioner is utilized.

Just because things are heating up outside doesn’t mean you need to suffer the warmth to avoid a higher energy bill. With a few adjustments to your home and routines, you can possibly decrease energy costs over the course of the summer season.