6 Summer Cooling Hacks That Can Slash Your Electric Bill
When dealing with sweltering temperatures, you need an air conditioner that can keep your home cool. It's understandable to want a comfortable environment, but it's also important to remain conscious of how energy-efficient your home is. You may be tempted to turn the temperature on your thermostat all the way down, but lowering the temp will raise your electric bill.
So, we've compiled some tips to keep your home as cool as possible while minimizing the amount of electricity you use. Something as simple as turning on a fan or closing the blinds during the day can make a big difference.
Here are six tricks to keep your home cool and use your thermostat more economically when it's warmer outside. (For more, we also recommend investing in a smart plug or a smart thermostat, adjusting the temperature of your thermostat and weather-stripping to save extra cash.)
1. Sign up for an energy audit
CNET
If your home isn't brand new, the cold air inside is probably seeping out through doors and windows with spotty seals, a poorly insulated attic and other locations of sneaky cracks.
To see how well your home is holding in the cold, sign up for a home energy audit with your utility provider or a local contractor. A certified home energy rater or auditor will check your home for leaks and recommend the best way to make your home more energy-efficient.
Don't want to spring for an audit? You can do a DIY audit instead. Stand outside your home and run your hand around the windows and doors. Can you feel the cold air escaping? If you do, caulk around leaky windows and add insulation around doors.
Easy Ways to Lower Your Utility Bills and Save Money Easy Ways to Lower Your Utility Bills and Save Money
Click to unmute
Video Player is loading.
Play Video
Pause
Skip Backward
Skip Forward
Next playlist item
Unmute
Current Time
0:00
/
Duration
0:15
Loaded :
100.00%
0:00
Stream Type LIVE
Seek to live, currently behind live
LIVE
Remaining Time
-
0:15
Share
Fullscreen
This is a modal window.
Beginning of dialog window. Escape will cancel and close the window.
Text
Color White Black Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan
Opacity Opaque Semi-Transparent Text Background
Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan
Opacity Opaque Semi-Transparent Transparent Caption Area Background
Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan
Opacity Transparent Semi-Transparent Opaque
Font Size 50% 75% 100% 125% 150% 175% 200% 300% 400% Text Edge Style None Raised Depressed Uniform Drop shadow Font Family Proportional Sans-Serif Monospace Sans-Serif Proportional Serif Monospace Serif Casual Script Small Caps
Reset Done
Close Modal Dialog
End of dialog window.
Close Modal Dialog
This is a modal window. This modal can be closed by pressing the Escape key or activating the close button.
Close Modal Dialog
This is a modal window. This modal can be closed by pressing the Escape key or activating the close button.
Easy Ways to Lower Your Utility Bills and Save Money
2. Get a smart thermostat
If you haven't upgraded to a smart thermostat -- such as one by Ecobee or Nest -- it might be time to make a change. Smart thermostats can regulate heating and cooling when you're not home to save money. Plus, you can adjust the settings remotely using an app on your phone or via voice commands. Here's our list of the best smart thermostats to help you make the best decision for your home.
3. Check the placement of your thermostat
Thermostat placement can play a big part in how well your air conditioner works. If you put the thermostat on a wall right next to a hot window, for instance, your air conditioner will kick on much more often than it needs to because your thermostat will think the room is hotter than it actually is. Here's how to pick the perfect wall for your thermostat and the ideal temperature you should set it to. You can also consider a smart thermostat that comes with extra room sensors, allowing it to keep track of the temperature throughout your home.
4. Close the blinds
A window letting in the hot sun won't just heat up your thermostat, it'll heat you up, too. During the warmest part of the day, close your blinds to keep out the sun. It can also help insulate your windows, which stops the cold air from escaping. There are also special insulating blinds, curtains and drapes that can keep your home even cooler.
A fan can help save on cooling costs.
Chris Monroe/CNET
5. Try a ceiling fan
You don't always need to amp up the AC to feel cooler. Using a ceiling fan can make a room feel cooler, enough that you can increase the thermostat temperature by 4 degrees "with no reduction in comfort." If you want to get high-tech, you can install a smart ceiling fan that connects to an app and automatically adjusts based on schedules you create. Just make sure your fan is rotating counterclockwise in the summer to get the most benefit.
6. Increase the temperature
To save the most money, always set your thermostat to the highest temperature you can comfortably stand. A programmable thermostat makes it easy to keep your AC at the right temperature. You can program the unit to hold at higher temperatures while you're at work and cool down right before you get home.
You can save 10% a year on your cooling bills by setting your thermostat just 10 to 15 degrees Fahrenheit higher for 8 hours each day, according to the Nebraska Energy Office. The US Department of Energy recommends aiming for an indoor temperature of 78 degrees Fahrenheit when you're at home. If 78 degrees isn't doable for you, even a small change in temperature can knock your energy bill down by up to 3% annually.
For more energy savings, explore our home sustainability cheat sheet full of eco-friendly tips and read about how you can save money by unplugging certain appliances when not using them.
More money-saving hacks for your home
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
CNN
13 minutes ago
- CNN
I tested Lululemon's comfy $64 Align High-Rise Shorts against a $25 Quince pair
Lululemon has a long-standing reputation for its high-quality, buttery-soft activewear, which is why so many CNN Underscored staffers love the brand's clothing. One of Lululemon's most popular items is its Align leggings, but now that it's summer, I decided to try one of its bestselling shorts instead: the Align High-Rise Shorts. Made from the brand's iconic Nulu material, they come with a steep $64 price tag. That's why I was curious to see if Quince, which is one of my go-tos for high-quality products at a fraction of the price, had a similar, more budget-friendly option. At $25, Quince's Ultra-Form Bike Shorts are nearly $40 less than the Lululemon shorts but offer a very similar look. To see how the two shorts stack up to one another, I tested them both to find out. Quince Ultra-Form Bike Shorts These figure-hugging shorts aren't restrictive and are ideal for everything from yoga to working at home. They come in sizes XS to XL and in two colors: navy and green (my black pair is currently sold out). The shorts are also available in multiple inseams. Lululemon Align High-Rise Shorts These stretchy shorts made from the brand's popular Nulu fabric are comfortable to wear and available in a wider size range (0 to 20). The shorts come in four different inseams and a rotating color selection. Currently, there are more than 10 colors, including a soft bubblegum pink and summer white. Nulu (81% Nylon and 19% Lycra Elastane) 78% Nylon and 22% Spandex 0 to 20 XS (0 to 2) to XL (16) 2', 4', 6', 8' 4', 7' 17 (varies by season) 2 Yes Yes Low-impact, Casual Low-impact, Casual A post shared by CNN Underscored (@cnnunderscored) I thought both shorts were incredibly comfortable to wear. In addition to being lightweight, breathable and easy to slip on, they're figure-hugging (but don't dig in) and have a barely-there fit that keeps them from being a distraction during low-impact activities and makes them ideal for layering under short dresses or skirts in the summer. True to their website descriptions, they have a soft feel that makes them a dream to wear. Lululemon's pair is made from its popular ultra-stretchy and breathable Nulu material, which is a nylon and elastane blend, while Quince's is made from nylon and spandex. The Lululemon Align shorts have 19% elastane in the body, which offers slightly less stretch compared to Quince's pair, which has 22% spandex. The material of the Lululemon shorts also feels slightly thicker than Quince's too, which gives them a higher-quality feel. Since both pairs are moisture-wicking (Quince's is also anti-microbial), I was able to finish my workouts relatively dry and I didn't notice any obvious sweat marks after working out in them. They've also both held up well in multiple washes, so far. If you're looking for athleisure made for low-impact activities and for casual wear, either of these will do the job thanks to their minimal compression. They were perfect for wearing around the house and comfortable to wear during multiple yoga sessions and treadmill workouts. If you're looking for shorts that will work for high-impact activities, like running or HIIT workouts, these shorts are probably not the best option. As someone who owns and has tested a decent amount of athleisure, I always look for bottoms that have wide, stretchy waistbands that aren't restrictive and don't roll or dig in. Thankfully, the waistbands on both shorts check those boxes and stayed in place as I made my way through different yoga positions on the mat. It's also worth noting that neither pair has built-in leg grippers, so the shorts did ride up a bit when I was doing yoga, though it was never to the point where I felt I had to adjust them constantly. Both of these shorts are high-waisted and cover the belly button, making them a great option for those who like a bit more coverage. They're also both designed with wider, non-restrictive waistbands. Compared with the Quince shorts, which run from an XS (0 to 2) through XL (16), the Lululemon shorts have a larger size range (0 to 20). I have the Lululemon shorts in a size 8 and the Quince shorts in a size medium (8 to 10) and they both fit well, so I'd say the shorts run true to size for both brands. With the Quince shorts, though, I noticed some slight gaping at the back that I didn't notice when I had the Lululemon shorts on. This is probably because the Quince shorts don't have a curved seam to reduce gaping in the waistband like the Lululemon shorts do. Prev Next The color options for the Quince shorts — which come in three colors (right now, they're almost entirely sold out in every color) — are very limited compared to the current 13 color options for the Lululemon shorts. Between trending colors, like Lavender Frost and Washed Denim, there are plenty of options to suit different aesthetics and work with different outfit combos. Although both shorts are pretty similar in terms of design, I liked that the Lululemon shorts have a handy hidden waistband pocket that you're able to tuck your ID, a key or money into. Both the Quince and Lululemon shorts are solid options for anyone looking for a comfortable pair of workout shorts. If you're looking to save money and don't mind more limited options for color, size and inseam, I would opt for Quince's. But if you're fine with spending a bit more, I would recommend buying the Lululemon ones since they fit slightly better, have a higher quality feel and come in a wider range of colors. Which brand makes more durable shorts, Lululemon Align or Quince? Which brand makes more durable shorts, Lululemon Align or Quince? While I can't fully speak to the longevity of the Lululemon or Quince shorts because I've only had them for a few weeks, both pairs have held up well through multiple workouts and laundry cycles so far. I haven't noticed pilling on either pair of shorts or anything else to suggest that one pair will outlast the other. Do Lululemon or Quince sell plus-sized shorts? Do Lululemon or Quince sell plus-sized shorts? Yes, Lululemon sells plus-sized shorts. Typically, size 18 and above is considered plus-size. The shorts from Quince go up to a size 16, while the shorts from Lululemon go up to a size 20. CNN Underscored has a team of skilled writers and editors who have many years of experience testing, researching and recommending products, and they ensure each article is carefully edited and products are properly vetted. We talk to top experts when applicable to make certain we are testing each product accurately, recommending only the best products and considering the pros and cons of each item. For this story, associate editor Rachel Dennis tested the Quince Ultra-Form Bike Shorts and the Lululemon Align High-Rise Shorts to see how they compare.
Fox News
an hour ago
- Fox News
13 must-haves to bring when camping with your dog, from travel crates to outdoor beds
Camping is a fun adventure for the whole family, the dog included! To ensure your furry friend has just as much fun as you while camping, be prepared with the right gear. Just like you, dogs need the comfort of a soft bed and a spacious sleeping bag. Plus, a tie-out lead, harness and water and food dishes are a must. Original price: $20.75 The number one item you should have in your dog camping gear is a lead or tie-out. This tie-out from Amazon is a popular option. It hooks between two trees, and you can connect your dog's leash so they can roam around more freely. They come in different lengths and colors, making it easy to pick one that best for your dog's size and personality. A harness is more comfortable for your dog, especially if they're going to be on a tie-out. This Ruffwear harness is extremely durable, even for dogs who like to pull. It has reflective strips built in, which is helpful when walking your dog around a dark campground. There are plenty of fun colors, so you can customize your dog's harness to their leash. An LED dog collar is ideal for nighttime walks with your dog. Campgrounds get much darker than your average street, so make sure other campers, cars and you can see your dog wherever they go. This collar can be shortened to get the exact size you need, and it's rechargeable. Give your pup somewhere comfortable to relax while you're in the woods. A good outdoor dog bed sheds dirt and water and won't trap dog hair. This Furhaven dog bed from Amazon is stuffed with foam to keep it comfortable. It's also reversible, so you get two color options. Alternatively, the OllyDog's Ridgeway travel bed is a lightweight bed made from soft microfleece that won't hold onto dog hair. When you need to pack up, just roll up the bed and clip it together with an attached buckle. The Basecamp bed from Ruffwear is also an easy-cleaning sleep mat option. It's a fashionable bed that comes in bright patterns, plus it has a waterproof, non-slip base. Your dog needs a sleeping bag just like you do! When you're camping in the fall, a sleeping bag will keep your dog warm and comfortable, plus it sheds hair, dirt and mud. An OllyDog sleeping bag rolls up for easy storage and is made from waterproof materials. Lined with a soft, breathable fleece, your dog is sure to sleep well while out in the woods. Original price: $51.99 A camping cot gets your dog off the ground, which can help keep them and their dog bed clean. An extra-large cot from Amazon can hold large dog breeds like German Shepherds and Retrievers. The cot is made from Teslin fabric, which is scratch- and tear-resistant. Original price: $74.99 Stay organized with a travel bag designed just for pets. Chewy's dog tote has separate spaces for dog food and treats, a pull-out tray with collapsible dog bowls and a huge inner compartment with separate compartments for leashes, toys and more. Travel-friendly water and food bowls are a must when camping with your dog. Amazon has a pair of collapsible dog dishes with carabiners attached for easy storage. Ruffwear also has pop-up food bowls in unique patterns. These lightweight bowls have a waterproof lining and durable shell. To keep the bowls clean, a washable dog bowl mat can help. It's a huge mat with a non-slip base. Being out in the woods is a lot of fun, but it brings mosquitoes, ticks and other bugs. To prevent your dog from getting covered in ticks, use Wondercide, a flea, tick and mosquito spray. Made from plant-based ingredients, the spray can be used on your dog's coat or on their bedding. Should your dog get ticks, make sure you have a tick removal kit on hand. The kit comes with a tick remover, tweezers for small, embedded ticks and a pamphlet that helps you identify different types of ticks, so you know whether you should worry about Lyme disease. If your dog is used to relaxing and sleeping in a crate, bringing a travel crate along can help them feel more comfortable. An Amazon Basics pop-up travel crate sets up in seconds. It has fastening straps that keep unzipped doors rolled up, so your dog can easily get in and out. Mesh windows offer ventilation on all four sides and secure zipper closures keep your dog inside when the doors are closed. Chewy has a similar, slightly more durable foldable crate option that's ideal for larger dogs. Plan to hike on your camping trip? Get your dog their very own hiking backpack. The OneTigris dog backpack has two pockets on either side for bags and treats. The cross-bungee cords also allow you to clip extra gear on. Ruffwear's Front Range day pack is a compact harness with two saddlebags on each side. There are three leash attachment options, including a V-ring, a loop on the back and a webbing loop on the chest. Original price: $44.95 Having a first aid kit on hand for your pet is always a good idea when you're camping or hiking. This first aid kit from Amazon is vet-endorsed and includes a dog thermometer, a dog muzzle, a tick kit and bandages. The whole kit folds into a compact bag that'll fit in your luggage. For more deals, visit You won't regret packing an extra towel just for your dog. When rain comes or your dog goes for an impromptu swim, a towel is a necessity. Amazon's Bone Dry pet towel is made from ultra-soft microfiber, which is extra-absorbent and machine-washable.
Wall Street Journal
2 hours ago
- Wall Street Journal
Elvis and James Dean Wore These Sneakers. Why They're Cool Again in 2025.
'I always tell my wife that I'm living in the wrong time,' said Evan Stowers, 39, who owns 16 pairs of retro-chic canvas sneakers. 'I'm nostalgic for when things were made with quality,' added the St. George, Utah, hairstylist. His brand of choice, California-based SeaVees, shares an unusual history with fellow makers of sleek canvas sneakers, P.F. Flyers and Jack Purcell. Decades ago, the tire manufacturer B.F. Goodrich Company (as it was then called) founded all three brands, eager to apply its rubber expertise to another industry. (Jack Purcell is now a line within Converse, which is a subsidiary of Nike, Inc.; the others are privately owned.)
