**Interviewer:** Many people are struggling with high electricity bills. What are some effective ways to save energy and lower our costs? Does adjusting the thermostat really help?
**Expert:** According to the National Energy Assistance Directors Association and the Center for Energy Poverty and Climate, electricity prices nationwide are projected to rise by 8% this summer, with average monthly energy costs reaching $719 from June to September.
As we move into winter, heating costs will also spike. The U.S. Energy Information Administration predicts an increase of $130 in energy expenses for this winter.
One simple way to alleviate the financial burden is by adjusting your home’s thermostat—raising it in the summer and lowering it in the winter.
Thermostat adjustments can be one of the easiest ways to save energy, but there are several other budget-friendly strategies to maintain year-round comfort.
**Interviewer:** But adjusting the temperature settings might compromise comfort. Is it really worth it?
**Expert:** It really depends on the individual. For example, if it’s 100°F outside for a month, and your ideal indoor temperature is set at 72°F with a bill of $500, you could save $50 by increasing the thermostat. Yet, internal comfort levels vary.
Energy Department data shows that the closer the indoor temperature is to the outside temperature, the less you pay in energy costs. For instance, if you adjust your thermostat by 7 to 10 degrees Fahrenheit for just eight hours a day, you might save around 10% on your heating and cooling bills annually.
Vernon Trollinger, an energy efficiency expert from Iowa, points out that few people notice much difference between indoor temperatures of 70°F and 78°F. A major factor in our perception of temperature is humidity; high humidity makes it harder for sweat to evaporate, making it feel hotter.
**Interviewer:** Could smart thermostats play a role in increasing efficiency?
**Expert:** Absolutely! Installing a smart thermostat can help minimize temperature variance, allowing it to automatically adjust when the house is empty, thus reducing energy consumption and lowering bills. For example, Ben Brown, CEO of Renew Home, a California-based energy management platform, notes that using a Nest smart thermostat can save about 12% to 15% on heating and cooling costs.
These smart thermostats utilize machine learning or AI to adjust themselves, adapting to when residents leave or return. They can also analyze weather forecasts to optimize temperature settings for maximum energy efficiency. If your state has time-of-use pricing, a smart thermostat can also adjust settings based on peak and off-peak hours to save money.
**Interviewer:** How can homeowners better understand their energy efficiency?
**Expert:** It’s crucial for homeowners to assess their energy efficiency thoroughly. It’s wise to have an expert conduct a thorough inspection. However, individuals can also obtain checklists from their utility companies to evaluate energy use in various areas of their homes.
For instance, if you can easily pull a dollar bill out from a closed door, it indicates air leakage. Wetting your hand and feeling around window frames can also help identify drafts. If you find air leaks, picking up sealants from a hardware store—often under $10—can make a significant difference in energy bills once the leaks are sealed.
**Interviewer:** What other strategies can homeowners employ to keep their homes comfortable while saving money?
**Expert:** There are several additional strategies to reduce energy costs. Ben Brown recommends investing in affordable tech, like smart plugs connected to your Wi-Fi, allowing you to control devices via mobile apps—perfect for high-energy appliances like refrigerators.
He also suggests using smart light switches with timers based on needs.
On the manual side, Trollinger emphasizes a few simple energy-saving hacks:
1. Keep south, southwest, and west-facing curtains closed to block sunlight and consider planting trees for added shade.
2. Regularly change HVAC filters. Clogged filters hinder airflow and extend operating time.
3. Keep rooms open. Closing a room can create discomfort in another area.
4. Turn off the AC at night. If temperatures drop below 60°F, you can open windows to cool down and close them before it warms up again.
5. Switch to LED bulbs, which last longer and consume less energy.
And don’t forget to take advantage of rebates for upgrading equipment. For example, Austin Energy offers an average rebate of $350 for installing new energy-efficient AC systems, while San Diego Gas & Electric provides discounts for smart thermostats and water heater upgrades.
Check your local utility company’s website for rebate programs.
Overall, every energy-saving action contributes to lower energy bills, and adjusting your thermostat is just the starting point.
