A Safe and Efficient Summer | Teems Electric

Is there anything better than a long summer day and night? Offer opportunities to do everything from playing in water or digging in the garden to chasing lightning bugs and sitting around the fire pit late in the evening, summer is certainly one of the most relaxing times of the year.

Most of us in the South truly love the summer, even with the humidity and the bugs we have to contend with. And most of us also love our air conditioning when the dog days of summer set in and it’s so hot the world outside your window looks dry and wavy.

Summer brings with it unique electrical risks and higher bills as we play and attempt to stay cool, but there are lots of ways you can both stay safe and stay efficient. With these tips and a little bug spray you can have the best summer ever.

Electrical Safety

Even if you feel like you are using less electricity during the summer, there are several specific risks that come with the season. Electrical shocks, house fires and other injuries are often attributed to large appliances, including your HVAC system.

Have your unit serviced ahead of the season by a certified professional, and don’t attempt any DIYs if you experience a problem.

Water play is a huge part of summer fun. If you are using a pool, spa or sprinkler system in your backyard, make sure water is directed at least 10 feet away from electrical outlets. Your outdoor outlets should be covered any time they are not in use.

Anything you do plug in outside, including extension cords, string lights or fans, needs to be rated for outdoor use. Never overload your outlets, and use the appropriate length extension cord rather than plugging multiple in to get power where you need it.

Summer Efficiency

Longer days and more sunshine might mean you are using fewer lights inside your home, but keeping things cool can still be quite costly. Staying awake longer into the night also likely means you are using more power outside as well. The good news is with a few simple changes you can keep your bills low and your home efficient

Use your windows for natural lighting and temperature control. On cool evenings, allow some fresh air in, but close and cover them for the hottest part of the day. Consider installing a programmable thermostat that can operate over Wi-Fi, and choose temperatures slightly warmer than you are used to.

Avoid the temptation to turn your system off altogether when you are on vacation. This can lead to unbalanced moisture in your home that can leave you with damages. Instead, set your thermostat high enough that it will only run during the hottest part of the day.

In the summer, you can comfortably lower your water heater temperature and save nearly 18% on your bills. Make sure the seals on your windows and doors are in good shape, and check for air leaks in your attic. If you are up to tackling projects this summer, consider replacing some of your large appliances with energy-efficient versions for year-round savings.

Make this summer safe and efficient all season long with some simple daily actions. And don’t forget the sunscreen!

Want to learn more ways to make your home more energy-efficient? Contact us and find out everything we can do for you.