Energy Saving Tips
Beat the Heat, Not Your Budget: Summer Energy Saving Tips
With a few simple changes around your home, you can stay cool and comfortable all season long while keeping more money in your pocket. From smart cooling tricks to easy laundry swaps, here are some simple ways to save energy this summer.
UGI encourages customers to take these steps to make their more comfortable and more energy efficient this summer:
Use Ceiling Fans Wisely
Set your ceiling fans to run counter-clockwise in the summer. This pushes air straight down, creating a cooling breeze that lets you comfortably raise your thermostat a few degrees without feeling the difference — saving on air conditioning costs.
Take Advantage of Nicer Weather
Take advantage of warm, dry days by hanging your laundry outside instead of running the dryer. Line-drying uses zero energy and can extend the life of your clothes, since heat and tumbling from a dryer cause more wear over time. Just check with your municipality or HOA first, as some areas have restrictions on outdoor clotheslines.
Keep Window Curtains, Shades, and Blinds Closed
On hot summer days, keep your window curtains, shades, or blinds closed, especially on windows that get direct sun. This simple habit blocks solar heat before it enters your home, helping your air conditioner work less to maintain a comfortable temperature.
Prepare for Winter
Even while you're enjoying the summer heat, it's the perfect time to start winter-proofing. Inspect and seal any gaps or leaks in your home or building's ductwork now, before the cold weather returns. Sealed ducts mean your heating system won't waste energy pushing warm air into attics, crawl spaces, or walls once temperatures drop — saving you money all winter long.
Messages and data rates may apply. Reply HELP for help. Text STOP to stop. Max 4 messages per month. Terms and Conditions at https://www.ugi.com/sms-terms-conditions/.
Year-Round, Every Day Energy Tips by Room
Whole House
- Easiest way to start saving is to turn off all fans and lights in unoccupied rooms or when you no longer need them.
- During the heating season, open the drapes and take advantage of the sun’s warmth and give your heater a break.
- It takes more energy to pump air into a space where the vents are blocked, unblock vents where possible.
- Use a smart thermostat to program your schedule to adjust the temperature while you are sleeping and away.
Living Room
- Install a smart power strip on your electronic entertainment centers to cut down on unnecessary plug load.
- Unplug your phone/watch chargers when they are not in use.
- Use a ceiling fan so you can turn down your AC, but be sure to turn it off when you leave the room.
Bathroom
- Take a 10-minute shower instead of a bath to save water and money on your heating bill.
- Install a properly sized ENERGY STAR® vent fan to control moisture in the air while you shower.
- Install low flow shower heads and faucet aerators to conserve water.
Laundry Room
- Save energy by giving your dryer a break and hanging your clothes out to dry.
- Clean your lint trap between each dryer load to maximize air flow and efficiency of your dryer.
- Wash full loads with cold water whenever possible. If you must wash partial loads, reduce the level of water appropriately.