Across the United States, more than 85% of homes have air conditioning installed. This accounts for 1856 kWhs usage per household on average annually.

Have you noticed you spend more on your electric bill in Texas over the summer months? It makes sense, the weather heats up, and we want to cool down.

And when we do this, we typically turn to electricity-eating appliances like air conditioning systems. But this will quickly eat through your finances.

So, keep reading to learn how to reduce your energy bill this summer. Here are eight money-saving ideas to get you started.

1. Use Curtains and Blinds

The Texas summer can be brutal, and one of the easiest ways to save on your electricity bill is to close your curtains or blinds. This can be especially effective if you shut them during the hours the sun shines through the most.

Even closing the blinds for a few hours can significantly reduce the amount you spend on cooling your home. Another benefit of shutting your curtains during the hottest hours is your furniture will last longer before fading.

• Pro Tip: If you don't have blinds or curtains up on your windows, you can use this as an opportunity to redecorate your space

2. Switch to Energy-Efficient Appliances

Appliances over the years have become more energy-efficient. Today, we have several ratings on appliances that can quickly tell you whether or not it's an appliance that will use a lot of electricity. This rating is called the ENERGY STAR® label.

When you see the ENERGY STAR® label on an appliance, you know it's been tested and meets specific requirements regarding quality and efficiency. Typically there is a label on the appliance that tells you several things. The primary information you're looking for is how much the estimated yearly consumption is and what the estimated annual operating costs are.

3. Use Fans Instead of Air Conditioning

Another way to beat the heat in a Texas summer is to use fans whenever possible. You can save money using a ceiling fan instead of turning on the air conditioner which uses a lot of electricity. A portable fan will also do if you're a renter and can't install a ceiling fan.

However, if you leave the fan running while not in the room, you will use up more electricity than is necessary. Instead, ensure you switch off all fans before exiting the room. You can always turn them back on when you return.

4. Perform Air Conditioner Maintenance

You won't save money if you have an air conditioner that's not working optimally. If you've slacked on getting regular maintenance performed, you should start contacting an HVAC maintenance company. While the maintenance service fee may cost more than you expected, it'll be cheaper than paying for more electricity than you need over a year.

An air conditioner, or HVAC system, is at its most energy-efficient when running at peak performance. Furthermore, regular maintenance will extend your AC unit's lifetime, saving you money on costly repairs or replacements.

5. Turn Down Your Water Heater's Temperature

While we all love to have a hot shower or soak in the tub, many US households run their water heater at excessive temperatures. Reducing the temperature to which it has to heat the water saves you money on reduced electricity costs.

You can take it one step further and put an insulation blanket on your water heater to help keep it from dropping in temperature too much during the colder months. This will also help you save money on your electric bill in Texas over the summer.

6. Find a New Electricity Plan

If you want to reduce your electricity bill, it may be time to consider switching electricity providers. Many energy providers offer competitive rates which can help you reduce your overall costs. Typically the energy company you choose will have plans you can choose between, depending on your needs and budget.

At AmbitEnergy, we offer month-to-month contract plans with variable rates. Another benefit we offer is you can change your plan if it no longer suits your needs. We also provide several fixed plans if you'd prefer the peace of mind of a more extended contract.

7. Stay Hydrated

While this isn't necessarily something you can do to your home, it's still a great way to beat the heat. Eat more fruits and drink more water to stay cooler in the hotter months.

Besides the fact that drinking water helps replace the water you lose through sweating, drinking water also helps lower your body temperature. If you've been sweating particularly heavily, drink a beverage containing electrolytes to replace those you lose.

• Pro Tip: Drinking enough water in the day helps your skin look and remain healthier for longer

8. Turn Off Appliances

Finally, the last in our money-saving ideas is to turn off appliances when you're not using them. It may seem tempting or even a great idea to leave the air conditioner running while you're out so you can return to a cold room; it's costing you money you need not spend.

Instead, when you leave a room, ensure you turn off all appliances like air conditioners, fans, etc. Leaving other machines running, like PCs, will add to the heat in the room, so turn those devices off as well. Additionally, turning off devices and appliances when not in use can also extend their lifespan, saving you money.

Save on Your Electric Bill in Texas This Summer

Following these few money-saving ideas is wise if you want to save on your electric bill in Texas this summer. There are several quick and easy ways you can start saving immediately.

For example, adjusting the temperature on your water heater, adding a blanket, turning off appliances when you leave the room, changing electricity plans, and using fans instead of air conditioners are all ways you can reduce the amount you spend on your electric bill.

If you've found these money-saving ideas helpful, let us save you money by switching to one of our fixed, variable, or green plans today. View our rates and plans and sign up with us today.