Portland summers are getting warmer, and for homeowners like you, that often means higher energy bills. But staying cool doesn’t have to bankrupt you, and it doesn’t mean sacrificing comfort, either.
With a few smart adjustments and some help from expert services like Carbone Home Services, you can beat the heat and keep energy costs under control. This guide breaks down six effective ways to lower your energy bills this summer while maintaining a cool, comfortable home.
1. Fix Plumbing Leaks
Did you know that even a single dripping faucet can waste hundreds of gallons of water per year? And that a running toilet can drive both your water and energy costs through the roof?
Hot water leaks are especially wasteful, since your water heater is working overtime to heat water that’s going straight down the drain. Fixing these small but costly leaks is one of the simplest steps you can take to cut down on waste and lower your monthly bills.
2. Upgrade to Low-Flow Fixtures
Portland is known for its environmentally conscious residents, and upgrading to low-flow fixtures is a smart, sustainable choice that adds to your savings.
Consider swapping out older showerheads, faucets, and toilets for WaterSense-labeled models, which are designed to minimize water use without compromising performance. The less hot water you use, the less energy your water heater will need.
Plus, with Portland’s appreciation for eco-friendly solutions, upgrading to low-flow fixtures aligns perfectly with the city’s sustainability values.
3. Use Your Water Heater More Efficiently
Your water heater is one of the biggest energy consumers in your home, but optimizing its use can lead to significant savings. Start by lowering the temperature on your water heater to 120°F. This temperature is hot enough to meet your household needs while saving energy and reducing the risk of scalding.
Want even more efficiency? Insulate your water heater tank and pipes to help retain heat longer, reducing the workload on your heater.
If your system is aging or struggling to meet demand, Carbone Plumbing offers energy-efficient tankless water heaters. Tankless models heat water only when needed, so no energy is wasted on keeping a full tank warm. Talk about smart savings!
4. Use Appliances Strategically
Home appliances might not seem like major contributors to high energy bills, but the heat they put out while running can raise the temperature in your home. Utilizing them strategically can make a big difference:
- Run dishwashers and laundry machines during cooler hours (early morning or late evening) to reduce strain on your cooling system.
- Wash clothes in cold water to eliminate unnecessary water heating costs.
- Avoid heat-generating appliances like ovens or dryers during the hottest part of the day.
By planning your appliance use around the weather and time of day, you can lower energy consumption and take pressure off your cooling systems.
5. Keep Your Plumbing System Summer-Ready
Portland’s water supply is known for its mineral content, which can lead to sediment buildup in your water heater over time. During summer, when water usage spikes, this buildup can reduce your heater’s efficiency and lead to higher energy consumption.
Scheduling a seasonal plumbing tune-up, including a water heater flush, can help remove sediment, improve efficiency, and keep your energy bills in check.
6. Team Up With Your Cooling System
Your cooling system works hard during summer, but small changes can keep it running more efficiently and reduce costs:
- Close curtains or blinds during peak sun hours to block out heat and keep indoor temperatures consistent.
- Use ceiling fans strategically to circulate cool air, making rooms feel cooler without running your thermostat as much.
- Maintain a strong plumbing foundation, which supports your HVAC systems. For example, well-functioning plumbing ensures your evaporative coolers and humidifiers can operate effectively.
A seamless partnership between your plumbing and cooling systems is key to keeping your home comfortable without overusing energy.
Stay Cool and Save Big This Summer
Keeping energy costs low during a Portland summer might seem like an uphill battle, but small changes to your habits and systems can add up quickly. From fixing leaks to optimizing your water heater and supporting your cooling systems, these steps can make a big difference without compromising comfort.
Don’t wait for rising utility bills to take action. Be proactive and get ahead of the heat with expert help from Carbone Home Services.
Schedule your summer plumbing check-up or water heater flush with Carbone Home Services today. Lower energy bills and a cooler, more efficient home are just a click or call away!
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