Summer in Oregon brings longer days, warmer weather, and, unfortunately, higher utility bills. On the bright side, whether you rent or own your home, there are easy ways to cut costs and keep your home comfortable. Here are some simple, effective ways to save energy and money this summer.
1. Use Fans Wisely
Fans cost less to run than air conditioning, and for some summer days in Oregon, they may be all you need. So, use ceiling fans to keep air moving, but remember to turn them off when you leave the room. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, ceiling fans are great at cooling people, but they don’t effectively cool spaces. So, leaving them on in an empty room is a waste of energy.
💡 Bonus tip: If you don’t have ceiling fans, a box fan or oscillating fan near a window can help pull cooler evening air inside.
2. Cool Efficiently
When it comes to air conditioning, less is more. So, set your thermostat to 78°F when you’re home and turn it up when you’re away. Each degree you raise the setting can save up to 8% on cooling costs. If you have an HVAC system, schedule a yearly tune-up to ensure optimal performance. If you have a window or portable unit, make sure it’s an energy-efficient model with a new or clean filter.
💡 Bonus tip: Proper insulation is just as important in the summer as it is in the winter. Seal gaps around windows and doors with weatherstripping or caulk and add insulation to attics or crawl spaces to keep cool air in and hot air out. This will help your home stay comfortable while using less energy.
3. Block the Heat
Keep blinds or curtains closed during the hottest parts of the day, especially on south- and west-facing windows. Install awnings or plant shade trees on the sunniest sides of your home for long-term savings. If you can’t (or don’t want to) make permanent changes, consider using blackout curtains or reflective window film to block even more heat.
💡 Bonus tip: In Oregon, utility companies and Energy Trust of Oregon often offer rebates on energy-saving window treatments. These programs are designed to encourage homeowners to make energy-saving improvements that reduce both their energy bills and their environmental impact. Check with your local provider to see if you qualify.
4. Use a Programmable Thermostat
The U.S. Department of Energy also recommends using a programmable thermostat to lower energy bills and maintain a more comfortable home. In the summer, set your thermostat to 78°F and raise it to 85°F when you’re away or asleep. In the winter, set your thermostat to 68 degrees Fahrenheit and lower it seven to 10 degrees when you’re away. Regardless of the season, the smaller the difference between indoor and outdoor temperatures, the lower your overall energy bill will be. According to DOE estimates, that move can save as much as 10% on heating and cooling costs each year.
💡 Bonus tip: Resist the urge to set your thermostat lower than usual to “cool things down faster.” It won’t speed up the process, and it wastes energy by overcooling your home.
5. Go Easy on Appliances
Many common appliances emit heat while they run, which raises the temperature in your home and causes your cooling system to work harder. So, avoid using ovens, dishwashers, dryers, and even stovetops during the hottest part of the day. Instead, cook outside on the grill, use a microwave or slow cooker, or plan no-cook meals like salads or sandwiches.
💡 Bonus tip: Make sure your appliances are well-maintained and energy-efficient. If you’re due for an upgrade, look for Energy Star-certified models. They use less energy and generate less heat while running.
6. Opt for Off-Peak Hours
Energy companies charge more during “peak” hours (a.k.a., hours of the day when demand is the highest). By scheduling your energy use to off-peak hours, you can help reduce the load on the grid and lower your monthly energy bill. Especially on hot 90+ degree days, it’s recommended that you run your dishwasher or laundry machines early in the morning or late in the evening, when it’s cooler. Peak hours (Oregon Residential Time of Use) for Pacific Power are 5 pm to 9 pm daily. For Portland General Electric customers, the most expensive hours are between 5 pm and 9 pm on weekdays.
💡 Bonus tip: Unplug electronics, appliances, and chargers when not in use. They continue to draw power, even when turned off or in standby mode. By reducing this “phantom” or standby power use, the DOE estimates the average U.S. household could save as much as $100 per year.
7. Save Water, Save Money
Water bills can also spike in the summer, especially if you have a yard or garden. Adjust sprinklers so they’re not watering the sidewalks or driveway, and use a broom instead of a hose to clear debris from patios and cement. Water early in the morning or late at night to minimize evaporation, and opt for native or drought-resistant plants (like lavender, yarrow, Oregon grape, and blanket flower) which are well-suited for Oregon summers.
💡 Bonus tip: Consider drip irrigation or soaker hoses, which deliver water slowly at the roots, where it’s needed most. Mulch around plants to help retain moisture.
Reaping the Benefits
Doing more to reduce your summer utility bills is not just good for your wallet; it’s also good for the community and the planet. Switching to cleaner energy practices reduces your carbon footprint and minimizes the risk of blackouts and power shortages by reducing the strain on the electrical grid.
Throughout the summer, track your utility bills. Seeing your usage drop is a great motivator, and you might even discover more ways to save.
Want more energy-saving tips?
- Check out our list of savvy ways to save by going green.
- Get some tips on going solar.
- Learn some affordable ways to refresh your home.