August in South Carolina is not for the faint of heart. As we enter the hottest month of the year, staying cool becomes a top priority for all of us. But that doesn’t have to mean pricier electricity bills for members of Broad River Electric Cooperative. Here are simple ways to beat the heat without breaking your budget.
Embrace the power of shade. Did you know that shading your home can significantly reduce your cooling costs? Consider installing awnings, blinds or shades to block out the intense sunlight and keep your home cooler naturally. Don’t forget to close curtains or blinds during the hottest part of the day to further prevent heat from entering your living spaces.
Save energy elsewhere if you’re relying more on your air conditioning. Make the switch from traditional lightbulbs to energy-efficient light-emitting diode bulbs (LEDs). LEDs consume 25-80 percent less electricity and have an impressive lifespan, lasting up to 25 times longer than traditional bulbs.
Consider replacing old appliances with energy-efficient models. Appliances with the ENERGY STAR label consume less energy and generate less heat. From refrigerators to air conditioners, these upgrades can lead to significant savings on your electric bills while keeping your home cool.
Time your energy use. Many household tasks like running the dishwasher or baking in the oven can make your home warmer in the hottest hours of the day. If possible, schedule these tasks for after sunset so that your air conditioning isn’t working twice as hard to keep your home cool.
By shifting some of your energy usage to nighttime, you’ll also help the cooperative reduce costs and fulfill its mission to offer reasonably priced electric service. “Peak” hours for energy usage occur when many customers are using energy at the same time, and Broad River Electric pays higher rates for electricity during those peak hours. You can sign up online for alerts to be notified of peak usage hours.
Program your thermostat. A programmable thermostat is a game- changer when it comes to energy savings. Set it to adjust automatically based on your schedule, raising the temperature when you’re away from home and lowering it when you return. By doing so, you can enjoy optimal comfort while avoiding unnecessary energy consumption. Keep in mind that the recommended temperature setting is 78 degrees. Broad River Electric also has a program and offers a rebate for smart thermostats. These thermostats allow the Broad River team to make small automatic adjustments based on peak times. You’ll stay comfortable, while helping hold down power costs. Visit Energy Smart to learn more.
Be diligent about turning off lights and unplugging devices when they’re not in use. Make it a rule in your household to check light switches and plugs every time someone leaves a room. This simple habit can amount to savings at the end of the month.
As members of Broad River Electric Cooperative, you are part of a community dedicated to providing reliable service and empowering you with energy-saving knowledge. If you have any questions or need further guidance, our dedicated team is always here to assist you. Contact us at (866) 687-2667.
President & CEO