According to Fox Business, energy prices are expected to raise 13% by the year 2020. If you’re interested in saving money on energy costs, there are several steps you can take to lower your summer utility bills.

Clean and/or Replace Your Air Filters

Dirty air filters lower the efficiency of your air conditioning unit. The accumulated dust on a dirty filter restricts the airflow from the unit, therefore reducing its ability to cool. By replacing your air filter monthly, you remove the potential airflow resistance that slows your conditioner down.

Keep Your Blinds and Shades Closed

While it may be nice to let the natural, Texan sunshine light your home, direct sunlight can drastically effect your utility bill with single-paned windows. Learn to be strategic about your home lighting. Whenever possible, keep windows that are in direct sunlight covered. Try using window-light from areas of your home with indirect sun. Covering all windows each time you leave your home will also greatly reduce utility costs. This method works by trapping your cool air in the home, reducing your energy need and keeping your home cool.

Install Energy Efficient Windows

If you currently have single-pane windows, consider upgrading to energy-efficient replacements. Energy efficient windows work by preventing solar heat gain. This means that they act as a barrier between your internal home temperature, and the external heat. Since this style of window pane does not absorb heat, you can enjoy window light at any time of day.

At Allied Siding & Windows, we offer several brand-name window products that are energy efficient and attractive for your home. Additionally, we never charge extra costs to remove and dispose of old windows. Each window is custom-made and fitted, which eliminates pairing poorly fit stock windows with pre-cut framings. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, energy-efficient windows often “pay for themselves” thank to reducing heating costs as well as less lighting costs.

Consider Going Up a Degree or Two on Your Thermostat

Even single degree changes on your thermostat can make a difference in utility costs. In order to save this summer, consider increasing the baseline temperature of your home by one or two degrees. As a goal, shoot for a thermostat setting of 78 degrees. Studies show that 78 is the most energy-efficient temperature. As an alternative or additional method, program your thermostat to a higher temperature while you are away from your house each day, and then lower when you are home.

To learn more about how energy-efficient replacement windows can help you cut heating costs in your home, call one of Allied Siding & Windows three locations: Houston (713) 946-3697, Austin (512) 674-3464, or Dallas (972) 888-9988.