Money Talks Monday (6/4/18)

Summertime is here and with all the summer fun, typically, comes the three highest electricity bills of the year; June, July, and August. The summer heat can be very draining on the wallet and can put a damper on summer fun if you're paying more than you've budgeted for electricity. To help you tame the electric bill beast, here are a few money saving tips that will keep costs down and allow you and yours to have more spending money and fun during the summer months.

First, many consumers are unaware that energy companies charge more during peak seasons and peak hours. Summer is considered the peak season and peak hours are from 10:00AM through 10:00PM daily. You can keep charges to a minimum by running high cost appliances early in the morning or late at night. Some of the most costly appliances to run are the washer, dryer, and dishwasher. During the summer, set your routine to run the dishwasher in the early morning when you awaken on days when it must be run. On alternating mornings, dry a load of clothes you washed before heading to bed the previous night. This will keep these major appliances from running during peak hours and keep the power bill closer to off season monthly charges.

A second tip to save on electricity is to set your thermostat at 78 each morning when you leave and make sure all blinds, curtains, and window coverings are closed during the day. Keeping window coverings closed will prevent the sun's heat from infiltrating your home during the day and keep the temperature livable for your return home without the air conditioning running constantly throughout the day. It is also helpful to invest in oscillating or box fans for family and bedrooms. The typical cost of a fan is $18, yet most take very little energy to run and keep a room six to seven degrees cooler. On less hot or humid days, with fans, you may be able to keep the air set at 78 and get a very tight control in your energy bill.

Thirdly, always unplug electrical appliances that are not in use. Just because the appliance is not on does not mean it is not using power. Microwaves, stereos, home entertainment systems, etc., especially those with a clock feature, pull power for lighting effects at all times; even when not in use. Though this is minimal wattage, it will still help keep costs down particularly in the peak summer months.

Lastly, think retro family outdoor fun. Energy efficient sprinklers, hoses, and water toys can be great fun, exercise, and a good way to cool off in the late evening hours and offer family fun that promotes bonding and saves costs of running computers and televisions. Head outdoors as the evening cools off and enjoy the water. Everyone's enjoyed running through a sprinkler before...make it a cost effective family event! I'll see you back here next Monday for Money Talks Monday. Try these tips and see if you cannot generate summer savings!