SJG Conserve

Now that’s school’s almost out, it’s time to shift into summer mode! But with kids home from school and staying home more often, there’s bound to be changes in routine, and that can mean an increase in energy usage.

With a few simple adjustments, families can keep summer comfortable while using energy more wisely.

Adjust your daytime routines
With more people home during the day, it’s easy for lights, electronics, and cooling systems to run longer than usual. Encourage your kids to turn off lights and unplug small devices when they’re not being used to help ease energy consumption.

Make the most of natural light
Longer days mean more sunlight. Open your blinds and curtains during the day to brighten your home and make you less reliant on artificial lighting. However, keep in mind that you should also close them during the hottest part of the day to make sure your cooling system doesn’t have to work quite as hard.

Be smart about screen time and devices
Modern electronics like gaming systems, tablets, and widescreen TVs can come with a high energy bill, and they can also generate their own source of indoor heat. Try to set limits or encourage your kids to take breaks outdoors.

Run appliances with intention
Summer is a great time to be more mindful about when and how we use our appliances. Consider running the dishwasher or the laundry machine with only full loads. Also, try doing so during the cooler parts of the evening or during off-peak hours to help improve efficiency.

Use fans to stay comfortable
Fans help to circulate the air and make our rooms feel cooler. Use them when you can to help you feel more comfortable. Just remember to turn them off when no one is in the room.

Get your kids involved in energy saving around the home
Summer is the perfect time to turn energy-saving into a family activity. Check out ETG Conserve’s guides and checklists for some fun ideas to get them involved!