Summer might be hot, but it doesn’t have to be expensive. Beat the heat with these easy, no or low-cost ways to save on your utility bill:
- Postpone your chores. Some appliances like dryers, washing machines, and dishwashers put out a good deal of unwanted heat. Wait until after dark, when it’s cooler, to run these and other heat-producing appliances. Make the most of each load by filling to capacity.
- Seal things up. You want to keep the hot air out and the cool air in. Inspect your home for air leaks. Common problem areas are the attic, basement, doors, windows, and furnace ducts. We offer a rebate up to $450 for duct sealing.
- Keep your meals simple. Give your microwave and grill some action. They offer ways to prepare food without generating the extra heat that comes with firing up your stove and oven.
- Block out the sun. It’s beautiful when the sun beams through your windows, but it can cost you. Block the sun’s heat in your home with drawn curtains or blinds.
- Tune up your AC. We’re buying! How cool is that? You can get a 7-year, 0% interest loan, contractor discount or rebate. We offer a $500 and $1,000 rebate or a low or no-monthly payment loan for HVAC systems.
- Tidy up your vents and filters. Keep the spaces around your vents clean and clear. Your cooling system can’t do its best work when vents are blocked by rugs, furniture or dust. Dirty filters make your system work harder and run longer than necessary.
- Upgrade to a smart thermostat. Don’t worry about cooling your house while you’re away. Wait until you’re about to return home to dial down your thermostat. The latest thermostats can be controlled from anywhere with your phone, and we offer a $50 rebate.
- Reduce screen time. Turn your electronics to energy saving modes. Most computers, monitors, game consoles, and phones have built-in settings to save energy. Better yet, spend time away from electronics, and more time with energy-free activities like biking, reading or creating art.
- Design your landscape. While a new tree won’t provide heat reprieve this summer, a shade tree will lower your house temp with each year of growth. Start making a plan now on where to put a new shade tree. Then in the fall, watch for a coupon from TPU and the City of Tacoma for a hefty discount on a shade tree from local nurseries.
- Plan for window upgrades. Window replacement is a costly proposition, but it’s one that pays you back over time with significant energy efficiency and comfort. Start by getting some bids from Tacoma Power’s Certified Contractors to see your options for this home investment. They’ll include a rebate or a low or no-monthly payment loan from Tacoma Power to help you get better windows.
Since many are spending more time at home this summer, it is more important than ever to use water wisely.
- Enjoy a quiet morning to yourself. Water early in the day when less water gets lost to evaporation.
- Don’t overwater. To stay green, most lawns only need one inch of water per week.
- Make playtime productive. If your kids like running through the sprinkler, put it on different parts of your yard so all areas get watered while they play.
- Take the work out of watering. Smart irrigation controllers can simplify lawn and garden care, giving you more time to play! We offer a rebate of 50% (up to $100) of the purchase price of qualifying WaterSense products.