Energy Tips for Everyday Summer Tasks

Summer often brings changes to your daily routine that can influence how much energy your household uses. While these tasks are a normal part of summer, understanding how they affect energy use can help you make small adjustments that improve comfort and provide energy savings. Let’s take a closer look at some common summer activities and where opportunities for savings may be hiding.

Make Laundry Day More Efficient

Between beach towels, summer sports, outdoor activities, and vacation preparation, many households find themselves doing more laundry during the summer months.

A large portion of the energy associated with laundry comes from heating water and running the dryer. When laundry increases, energy costs can add up over time. Fortunately, there are a few changes you can make to your routine that can reduce unnecessary energy use:

• Wash clothes in cold water when appropriate.
• Wait until you have a full load before running the washer or dryer.
• Hang clothes outside to dry when weather permits.
• Clean the dryer’s lint filter after each load to promote proper airflow.

Be Strategic When Watering Your Lawn

Warmer weather often means spending more time maintaining lawns and gardens. Efficient watering helps your lawn and garden thrive while reducing water waste.

Timing is often one of the most important factors. Watering during the cooler morning hours allows moisture to soak into the soil before the heat of the day causes excessive evaporation. Regularly checking irrigation equipment can also help prevent wasted water usage throughout the season. To maximize efficiency:

• Water early in the morning.
• Check sprinklers and hoses for leaks or damaged components.
• Add mulch around plants and garden beds to retain moisture.
• Avoid overwatering after periods of rain.

Summer Gatherings Can Increase Energy Use Around the Home

Backyard cookouts, family celebrations, and neighborhood gatherings are a staple of summer. While entertaining creates lasting memories, it can also increase energy use around the home.

Preparing food, frequently opening refrigerators, and post-party cleanup all contribute to higher energy consumption. Hosting activities outdoors can help minimize indoor heat buildup and keep your cooling system from working harder than necessary.

When entertaining guests, consider:

• Grilling outdoors instead of using the oven.
• Taking advantage of natural daylight when possible.
• Using LED lighting for evening gatherings.
• Running the dishwasher only when it is full.

Direct Sunlight Can Make Your Home Harder to Cool

Sunlight can make a home feel bright and welcoming, but it can also raise indoor temperatures. Rooms with direct sunlight often become warmer throughout the day, causing your air conditioner to work harder.

Reducing unwanted heat gain can help keep your living spaces comfortable and improve cooling efficiency:

• Close blinds or curtains in sun-facing rooms.
• Use blackout curtains in areas with prolonged direct sunlight.
• Seal gaps around windows and doors.
• Keep cool air contained by closing unused rooms.

Your Air Conditioner Works Overtime in the Summer

For many households, cooling accounts for a significant portion of summer energy demand. As temperatures rise, air conditioners typically run longer and more often to maintain indoor comfort.

Because of this increased consumption, routine maintenance can play an important role in reducing strain on your cooling system. Even basic upkeep can improve airflow and support overall system performance. Regular maintenance should include:

• Replacing or cleaning air filters as recommended.
• Keeping vents free from obstructions.
• Removing leaves, grass clippings, and debris from around the outdoor unit.
• Scheduling professional maintenance if your system is due for service.

Vacation Prep Can Help Prevent Unnecessary Energy Use

Summer is one of the most popular times of the year for travel. Before heading out of town, it’s worth taking a few minutes to prepare your home for an extended absence.

Many electronics and household devices continue using electricity even when no one is home. Taking steps to save energy before you leave can help make your home more efficient while you’re away:

• Adjust your thermostat for an unoccupied home.
• Turn off unnecessary lights.
• Unplug electronics and chargers that won’t be used.
• Use timers or smart devices to manage lighting schedules.
• Check that doors and windows are securely closed.

Small Changes Can Make a Difference

Summer activities can naturally lead to increased energy use, but they also provide opportunities to develop more energy-conscious habits. By being mindful of how everyday summer tasks affect your home’s energy usage, you can keep your living spaces comfortable, enjoy the season, and feel more in control of your energy habits all summer long.

Are you ready to take your energy-saving efforts a step further? If you’re an AEP Energy customer*, you can shop Reward Store for energy-efficient products that can help you reduce unnecessary energy use and take greater control of your home’s energy habits.

*Please note, not all AEP Energy customers or price plans are eligible to earn Reward Dollars. Some exclusions apply.

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