How Can I Save Energy and Lower My Electric Bill?

Looking for simple, effective energy-saving tips for the summer in the Woodlands to keep your home cool and your energy bill low? You’re not alone. At The Woodlands Plumbing & Air, we help homeowners like you stay comfortable without wasting electricity—or money. Whether you’re asking, “How can I cool my home without turning the AC all the way up?” or “What’s the best thermostat setting in hot weather?”, we’ve got the answers.

Here are 7 smart, energy-saving tips to help lower your electric bill this summer and beat the heat without breaking the bank.

1. What’s the best thermostat setting to save money in the summer?

Set your thermostat to 78°F when you’re home and raise it by 7 to 10 degrees when you’re away. Want to make life easier? Install a smart thermostat. It can learn your schedule and automatically adjust the temperature to help you stay comfortable and save energy. Programmable thermostats are great for busy families in The Woodlands who want set-it-and-forget-it energy savings.

2. How does insulation help keep your home cooler in the summer?

If your home isn’t properly insulated, cool air leaks out and hot air gets in. That means your air conditioner must work harder. When this happens, your energy bill climbs higher.

Seal any gaps or cracks around windows, doors, and in the attic. Adding weatherstripping or caulk can make a big difference. It also has an effect your home’s indoor air quality. Want to be sure your home is sealed tight? Ask us about scheduling a professional indoor air quality assessment and energy audit.

3. Do ceiling fans really help with cooling costs?

Absolutely! Ceiling fans use much less electricity than air conditioners and help circulate cool air more efficiently. Just make sure they’re set to spin counterclockwise in the summer. Also, don’t forget about your attic. Poor attic ventilation traps heat, which makes your whole house warmer. Installing an attic fan or ridge vent can take pressure off your HVAC system.

4. Why is HVAC maintenance important during the summer?

When your HVAC system is dirty or poorly maintained, it works harder and uses more electricity. That means higher energy bills and less comfort. To keep your air conditioning system running smoothly:

• Replace or clean air filters every 1–2 months
• Have an HVAC technician check refrigerant levels
• Clear debris from outdoor units

Need a AC tune-up? Schedule seasonal HVAC maintenance with our expert team here at The Woodlands Plumbing & Air.

5. Should I upgrade to energy-efficient appliances?

If your AC unit or appliances are more than 10 years old, they may be driving up your energy bill. Switching to ENERGY STAR® certified models can lower your usage while still delivering great performance. While there’s a cost upfront, the long-term savings are often well worth the investment—especially during the hot, humid summers in Southeast Texas.

At The Woodlands Plumbing & Air, we offer professional air conditioning installation and replacement tailored to your needs. Schedule a consultation online, and we will provide a custom solution that best fits your home.

6. What’s the best way to block heat from coming through my windows?

Use blinds, curtains, or shades to keep sunlight out during the hottest parts of the day—especially on south- and west-facing windows. For extra protection, try:

• Reflective window film from companies like 3M
• Thermal or blackout curtains
• Exterior shading like awnings or solar screens

These low-cost solutions can reduce indoor temps by several degrees without touching the thermostat.

7. Can landscaping really help cool my home?

Yes! Strategic landscaping provides natural shade and acts as a barrier against hot winds. Plant deciduous trees on the south or west side of your home to block summer sun and let in light during the winter. Also consider shrubs along exterior walls and ground cover plants to cool the area around your foundation. Those are natural, energy-efficient ways to reduce your cooling load.

Bonus: What is vampire energy and how can I stop it?

Even when they’re turned off, many devices still draw power. This is known as phantom load or vampire energy. To stop wasting electricity, unplug chargers and electronics when not in use and use smart power strips to shut off multiple devices at once. It’s a small habit that can add up to big savings over time.

Ready to apply these energy-saving tips for summer in The Woodlands, TX?

Start with small, smart changes. Use your ceiling fans, program your thermostat, seal up drafts, and get your HVAC system checked. These steps can make a huge difference in your home’s comfort and energy usage. At The Woodlands Plumbing & Air, we’re your local experts in energy-saving home solutions. Call us today or schedule a system check-up online to get the right smart upgrade options for your home.