Ten Ways to Save Energy This Summer

Here in New Jersey we are having a heat wave this weekend. With the himidity, it will feel as though the temperture is over 100 degrees. I am sure all air conditioning units will be on, but are you worried about high energy costs this summer?

The U.S. Department of Energy estimates that summer air-conditioning accounts for more than 16 percent of annual energy spending.

Here's 10 ways to help save energy

1. If you have not already done so, have your air-conditioner checked by a qualified professional. Servicing typically includes a check on refrigerant levels, the compressor, hoses, the ductwork and the thermostat.

2. Turn up your thermostat – set the thermostat at 74 degrees when you are at home and up to 85 degrees when you will be away. A programmable thermostat is an excellent way to save energy and maintain home comfort year-around.

3. Make sure your thermostat is not located near lamps or electronic appliances. It can sense heat from these devices and make your air-conditioner run longer.

4. Replace air conditioner filters – dirty filters restrict air flow and cause your system to run longer, thus wasting energy. Replace your filter at least once per month.

5.Weather-strip, seal, and caulk leaky doors and windows and install foam gaskets behind outlet covers.

6. On warm, sunny days, keep window coverings closed to prevent solar heat gain.

7. Use ceiling or room fans in occupied rooms. These will get air moving and help to reduce the temperature.

8. Have the windows in your home tinted. Tinting is effective at blocking the rays of the sun from reflecting through the glass of your windows and into your home.

9. Install a whole house fan. These devices circulate cool air throughout your house and exhaust hot air out of the attic.

10. If your air conditioning unit is older, consider replacing it with a newer, more efficient model. Make sure and look for the Energy Star label, your guarantee of the highest energy performance

Trim Your Monthly Expenses

Have you been stressed about your family's budget? Are you living pay check to pay check?

If you start to track your expenses, you will get an idea exactly where your money is going and then focus on where to trim expenses. You should include all monthly expenses, including car payments and insurance, mortgage and home owners insurance.

If you find there is little money left after paying all your monthly expenses, you may need to develop a budgeting plan. If your goal is to save more at the end of each month or pay down credit card debt, there are ways to trim expenses. Keep track of all dining out, travel, gifts, clothing, shoes and personal care. You might not realize how quickly these items add up.

When you were shopping for a car, you most likely bargained with the salesman(woman) for the best price, right? Did you bargain the financing also? If your answer was no, then look into refinancing the balance. This can save you money over the length of the loan and could also save you some money each month by lowering your payments.

Comparing a few different insurance companies for the best rates on your auto and home owner policy can also be a good way to save money each month. Most companies offer a free auto and Home Owner Insurance Quote, so you have no reason not to take advantage of this. You will find there are companies out there that offer great coverage for less than what you are paying now. If your home owner policy or auto policy will be renewing soon, now is the time to start comparing and get the lowest rate.

If you need help with your budgeting solutions, Finance Genius offers financial opportunities and resources to better help you with areas of family spending.