Beat the Heat: Save Money on Your Utility Bills This Summer
As the temperatures soar, so do our utility bills. But with a few simple changes, you can conserve energy and water, and save money in the process. Here are some tips to help you stay cool and keep your costs down.
Cooling Your Home
- Set your thermostat to 78°F in the summer, and 5-10°F higher when you leave the house. This simple adjustment can make a big difference.
- Change your air filter every month to ensure your system is running efficiently.
- Run ceiling or table fans when possible, instead of lowering the thermostat. They can make your home feel 2-3 degrees cooler!
- Shade your windows to keep the sun’s rays from heating up your home.
Other Ways to Save
- Avoid going in and out of your home repeatedly to keep the cool air in and hot air out.
- Use your washer with full loads and cold water to reduce energy consumption.
- Try grilling outside, or using small appliances like microwaves or InstantPots instead of your stove or oven. They use less energy and keep your kitchen cool.
Water Conservation Tips
- Inspect your sprinkler heads to ensure they’re not wasting water. A broken head can waste up to 25,000 gallons in six months!
- Connect your pipes and hoses to prevent leaks. A small leak can waste up to 6,300 gallons a month.
- Direct your spray to your landscape, not your sidewalk.
- Follow the watering day restrictions set by the St. Johns River Water Management District.
- Order a free Water Conservation Kit from JEA to get water-saving products that can help you save up to $75 a year on your water bill.
Billing Options
- Consider JEA’s levelized billing program, MyBudget, which averages your past usage to keep your bill consistent every month.
- Monitor your daily electric usage through your JEA account, and receive alerts when your usage reaches a certain amount.
- Take advantage of payment extensions or arrangements if you need extra time to pay your bill.
- Access community resources that offer utility bill assistance.
Get a Free Energy Assessment
JEA offers free in-home assessments to help you conserve energy and reduce water use. Their energy auditors will conduct a walk-through inspection of your home to identify areas for improvement. Call 904-665-6000 to schedule your assessment today.
Stay cool and save money this summer with these simple tips!
Every drop counts! Conserve water and save on your bill.
Make your home more energy-efficient and reduce your utility bills.