There is plenty to love about summer in Bermuda, but there is one aspect that leaves residents yearning for cooler temperatures: the infamous summer electricity bill. In the summer months, we see a rise in the use of air conditioners, fans and pools as residents try to fend off the heat. Of course, each of these contributes to an increase in energy consumption.
How can you use energy efficiently to both stay cool and keep your electricity bill low this summer? BELCO’s Energy Efficiency and Conservation Manager, Jamil Rahemtula, offers a few suggestions:
1. Use Energy Star qualified fans to cool your home. An Energy Star qualified ceiling fan is 50% more energy efficient than a non-qualified model and works well to keep rooms cool while turning down your AC.
2. It’s not the heat; it’s the humidity. When seeking to make your home less muggy, remember that Energy Star qualified dehumidifiers use up to 20% less energy than non-qualified models.
3. If you choose to heat your pool, dial it back a notch. Setting your pool’s thermostat down by 5°F can reduce your pool’s heating consumption by 20%.
4. Don’t let your cool air vanish through the cracks. Use weather-stripping to minimize air leaks and reduce your home’s cooling needs by up to 20%.
5. Hang your clothes out to dry. Use that beautiful Bermuda summer sunshine to dry your clothes on an outdoor clothesline instead of using an electric dryer.
6. Get grilling. You don’t really want to turn that oven on, do you? Save the electricity and keep your indoor temperatures cooler by cooking your food on an outdoor grill. Barbecue, anyone?
7. Unplug and unwind. Unplug appliances when they are not in use. Start with your water heater, as it is one of the largest consumers of energy in your home. A timer is extremely convenient but simply pulling the plug each day after your shower also works.
For more information about energy efficiency and how it can help you save money on your electricity bill, visit www.belco.bm or follow BELCO on Facebook.
