5 Easy Ways to Stay Cool on A Budget

During the chilly winter months, we find ourselves romanticizing warm weather. We just can’t wait to feel the hot summer sun thaw out the chill that lingers in our bones. Daydreams of water and adventure only make the allure of shedding layers that much more appealing.

Then, months later, reality reminds us of the intense heat of summer as we favor our brisk air conditioning; until we’re shocked by that alarming number on our utility bill. With the constant rising prices, you might find yourself trying to stay cool on a budget. You might be juggling ways to find middle ground between keeping yourself cool and not freezing your bank account.

Sounds a bit familiar, right? Don’t worry, you aren’t alone in this hurdle. Here are 5 easy tips to stay cool on a budget!

1. Don’t Add Heat

Sometimes it feels like both art and science to get your home cooled just right. Maneuvers which pay off leave you with a great feeling of satisfaction once you reach the perfect temp. The last thing you want to do is something that could jeopardize your mini victory. The easiest way to strike the right balance is to avoid adding any heat.

Sure, that seems simple and obvious. But using appliances like the dishwasher, clothes dryer, along with your stove and oven can offset your efforts and make your bill go up. If you do find yourself in a position where you need to use these appliances, try to wait until nightfall as outside temperatures begins to drop.

2. Keep Up Maintenance

If you read our previous blog about summer home maintenance, then you might recall how we talked about being mindful of regular maintenance and keeping your appliances like air conditioning units in top-working shape. Sometimes, the reason your bill increases is due to the system working overtime to correct an issue. Or can be as simple as a filter that needs replacing.

So, take some time to do an inspection, or if you don’t feel qualified, call a professional for a quick summer checkup.

3. Unplug Your Devices

One of the easiest ways to stay cool on a budget and help cut down on energy costs throughout the year is to unplug your devices when not in use.

Keeping your laptop cord plugged in the wall when you take your device with you seems completely innocent and harmless. But it could actually cause you to lose money. And your phone charger by your bed that you never take out of the wall— it may also affect your energy bill. And where there is energy usage, there is heat. While it’s small, these items can add up to generate heat that cause house temperatures to go up.

Look, we understand. Mornings, weekends, or any time you’re rushing out of your home is always chaotic. Unplugging your charger can easily slip your mind. So, a quick trip to help keep things unplugged is to put your cords and ports in a surge protector power strip. Not only does it keep things organized, but all it takes is the flick of a switch to stop the energy flow.

4. Keep It On And Consistent

There is a widely accepted misconception that if you leave your AC on all day, it’ll make your energy bill go up. But in some cases, it’s cheaper to keep your air conditioning on all day— even when you are gone.

The theory is that each time you turn on your AC, it takes a great deal of energy to start up and cool the entire house down. That big, constant surge of energy will not only cost you, but puts more wear on your system.

The easiest way to keep your temperature consistent is to use a programmable thermostat. By swapping out your existing tech for a new updated version you can be in control of your home’s temperature, day, or night. With some programing selections you can rest assured that you will avoid any sudden changes that could cost you more at the end of the month. Planning on being out of the house more than usual? Why not invest in a thermostat that has an app?

5. Add Window Treatments

It has been suggested that the best way to reduce your energy use is to turn off lights. During the day, you can take advantage of sunlight by opening your blinds. Though good advice, in the summer, it may be best to let that advice go by the wayside.

When we leave our windows completely exposed, it lets in sunlight along with the heat associated with it. Similar to opening the oven door when you are baking: the cool around you becomes warm, thus the temperature rises. These types of temperature bumps cause your AC to notice the change and work harder. This consumes more energy to get back to the cooler temperature.

There are so many fun and easy ways to help reduce the heat coming from windows in the form of window treatments. Think blinds, shades, and curtains. With all different styles and options available, you will feel like an interior designer finding the perfect fit for your space.

Need Help with Your Electric Bill?

Sometimes we all find ourselves struggling to make ends meet. With bills rising, we can help with an easy Check Into Cash Installment Loan. This could offer a lump sum of cash to help you stay cool on a budget and as you catch up with your bills.*

*Product availability varies by state.  Not all customers may qualify, see website or store for details on current loan offerings.

Not all consumers may qualify for loan products noted above; certain restrictions apply.  All products and services not available in all states or stores.  Rules, fees and limits apply.  See store for details.

California:  In California, deferred deposit loans are provided in accordance with the Department of Financial Innovation pursuant to California Deferred Deposit Transaction Law, Cal. Fin. Code §23000 et seq.