In the summer, electricity bills are usually higher than other seasons. The tips below would save you lots of money in the summer.
Laundry:
The sun is hotter during the summer. So dry your clothes outside in the sun instead of using the dryer. This would save you a lot on electricity bills. Dryers consume much energized-matter. Also when you are using them, heat escapes the dryer into your home thereby incurring more energy costs. You can also wash clothes using cold water.
Insulation:
Make sure your house is properly insulated, and there are no leaks that may waste your air conditioning. Excellent insulation would keep the heat out. Use caulks or foam to seal up cracks.
Go out more:
There are lots of outdoor activities that could be enjoyed in the summer. The smaller the duration you donate to being indoors, the less your electricity bill. You can take advantage of the weather by going to places like parks, beaches, etc. When you are out, all appliances should be unplugged, cooling systems and lighting should be turned off.
Use the fan more and less of the air condition:
Fans use less energy than air conditioners.
Close windows and blinds:
Sure you might want some of that beautiful sunlight to stream in through your windows, but you would have more costs regarding air conditioning and fans. The drapes would reflect some of the heat before it gets to your home.
Cold showers:
Cold showers are more useful in the summer. The weather is hotter and cold water would cool your body more. Hot water would just contribute to your electricity bill.
Incredibly Hot Rooms:
For some rooms that are unusually high in temperature, do not use the central air conditioner for those areas. You would be better off installing a unit air condition in those areas. Those rooms would make your air conditioner work overtime.
Plant trees for shade:
Trees are a good, natural cooling source. This is a good long term solution, especially for homeowners. Plant trees beside your houses. They would increase cooling significantly.
Change AC filter:
Dirty air conditioner filters can restrict air flow. The air condition unit has to work harder to pump air thereby consuming more electricity. It is advisable to check the filters every month.
Turn off fans when leaving a room:
Fans do not cool rooms. They only circulate air to cool people. Letting a fan operating while no one is in the room is a waste of resources. Turn off your fan when you are not in the room.
Ensure your family members, roommates, and colleagues at work are also aware of these techniques so they would understand you and do everything possible to save energy costs with you.