Why Some Household Appliances Use More Energy in the Summer

When summer arrives, it’s natural to expect your air conditioner to use more energy. After all, keeping your home comfortable through the warmest months of the year means your cooling system is working more frequently.

Several household appliances use more energy during the summer months as they work to maintain temperatures, manage humidity, and support seasonal activities. Understanding how warm weather affects them can help you make informed decisions about energy use while maintaining comfort throughout the season.

Air Conditioners Are the Most Noticeable Energy Users

Air conditioners are among the biggest contributors to summer energy use, accounting for about 19% of the electricity used in U.S. homes. As outdoor temperatures climb, your cooling system may run longer and cycle more frequently to maintain your desired indoor temperature.

While some increase in energy use is expected, replacing air filters regularly, keeping vents clear, and scheduling routine maintenance can support efficient performance. You can also reduce the workload on your air conditioner by closing blinds during the hottest parts of the day and sealing drafts around windows and doors.

Refrigerators and Freezers Work Harder When Temperatures Rise

Your refrigerator works around the clock every day of the year, but summer conditions can make it more challenging. Higher room temperatures mean the appliance must use more energy to keep food at a safe temperature. Frequent trips for cold drinks, snacks, and cookout supplies can increase demand even more.

To help your refrigerator operate more efficiently:

• Avoid leaving the door open longer than necessary.
• Check that door seals are in good condition.
• Allow hot foods to cool before storing them.
• Clean coils as recommended by the manufacturer.

Practicing these habits can help your refrigerator maintain consistent temperatures and operate more efficiently.

Dehumidifiers Help Manage Summer Moisture

Excess moisture from the summer heat can make your home feel uncomfortable even when the air conditioner is running.

Dehumidifiers help remove excess moisture from the air, which can improve comfort and reduce the damp, sticky feeling often associated with humid weather.

To use a dehumidifier efficiently:

• Set it to a target humidity level instead of running it continuously.
• Empty and clean the collection tank regularly.
• Keep windows and doors closed while the unit is running.
• Use it only where humidity is a concern.

You should maintain indoor humidity levels between 30% and 50% for comfort and moisture control.

Pool Equipment Can Be a Major Seasonal Energy User

For homeowners with swimming pools, summer often means increased use of pool pumps and filtration equipment. These systems play an important role in maintaining water quality, but they can also contribute significantly to household energy use.

Fortunately, there are a few adjustments to improve efficiency:

• Use a timer to avoid running the pump longer than necessary.
• Follow manufacturer recommendations for filter maintenance.
• Remove debris regularly to improve circulation.
• Use a pool cover when the pool isn’t in use.

Maintaining your pool equipment can support both water quality and energy efficiency throughout the season.

Outdoor Living Can Increase Energy Use

Summer is a popular time for backyard gatherings, outdoor dining, and evenings on the patio. Along with these activities comes increased use of outdoor appliances and electronics, such as beverage coolers, televisions, speakers, and decorative lighting. While these devices typically don’t use as much energy as an air conditioner, their frequent use throughout the season can contribute to higher overall household energy consumption.

To help manage energy use:

• Choose LED outdoor lighting when possible.
• Turn electronics off when they’re not in use.
• Unplug seasonal equipment between uses.
• Limit unnecessary refrigerator and cooler door openings.

Being mindful of outdoor energy use can help you enjoy your favorite summer activities while avoiding unnecessary waste.

Understanding Seasonal Energy Use

Summer energy use is often the result of several appliances and systems operating regularly to keep your home comfortable, preserve food, manage humidity, and support seasonal activities. By staying on top of routine maintenance, using appliances effectively, and understanding how warm weather affects energy use around your home, you can make the most of the season while keeping energy efficiency in mind.

Are you looking for more ways to build smart energy habits at home? If you’re an AEP Energy customer*, visit Reward Store to explore energy-efficient products that support your energy-saving goals all year long.

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

AEP Energy does not guarantee the accuracy, timeliness, suitability, completeness, freedom from error, or value of any information herein. The information presented is provided “as is”, “as available”, and for informational purposes only, speaks only to events or circumstances on or before the date it is presented, and should not be construed as advice, a recommendation, or a guarantee of future results. AEP Energy disclaims any and all liabilities and warranties related hereto, including any obligation to update or correct the information herein. Summaries and website links included herein (collectively, “Links”) are not under AEP Energy’s control and are provided for reference only and not for commercial purposes. AEP Energy does not endorse or approve of the Links or related information and does not provide any warranty of any kind or nature related thereto.