Even in Texas, winter can bring chilly temperatures. And even if you have the lowest electricity rates Texas offers, using your heater all winter will likely lead to high heating bills.

But staying warm doesn’t have to mean cranking up your thermostat. If you’d like to save energy and keep your electric bill from spiking, here are 8 creative ways to stay cozy at home without raising the temperature.

1. Layer up with warmer clothing

One of the easiest ways to stay warm is to wear layers. Start with a base layer, like thermal underwear, that wicks sweat away from your body. Then, add an insulating layer like fleece and finish with a coat or cozy blanket. Warm socks and slippers will help keep your feet comfortable on cold floors.

2. Use rugs for better insulation

Tile and hardwood floors can feel cold in the winter. Adding rugs will help insulate your floors and keep your home — and toes — feeling warmer. The best rugs for insulation are large, thick, densely woven and made from wool, fur or synthetic fibers.

3. Use curtains strategically

About 30% of a home’s heating energy is lost through windows. Minimize heat loss by closing curtains and shades in the evening. Use thick or insulated curtains to keep the cold from seeping in. Then, take advantage of heat gain by opening curtains when it’s sunny outside.

4. Seal air drafts

Drafty windows and doors let cold air in and warm air out, making them costly enemies. Luckily, they’re usually pretty simple to fix using weatherstripping or other methods. For an easy DIY fix for a drafty door, roll up a towel and place it at the door base.

5. Rearrange your furniture

Stay warm in your home by moving your sofas and beds away from cold windows and outside walls. Also, keep vents and air returns clear of furniture so warm air can circulate freely. This ensures heat gets circulated properly throughout rooms.

6. Consume warm meals and drinks

Eating a hot meal makes even the coldest days seem a little warmer, wouldn’t you agree? Drinking tea, coffee or cocoa also feels nice and keeps your hands toasty.

7. Stay active

Moving around your home is a great way to generate body heat and avoid turning up your thermostat. Light exercise, housework or even a quick dance break should do the trick. Bonus: This tip is also great for your overall health and well-being!

8. Warm up at night

A heated blanket or mattress pad can make your bed feel like a cozy retreat without heating the whole house. If you don’t have one, you can layer extra blankets or use flannel sheets to help retain body heat. For extra warmth, try using a heated rice pack at your feet. (You can even make one yourself if you’re feeling crafty!)

Compare electricity rates in Texas

These tips can help you keep warm in winter without raising your electric bill, but a year-round solution is to find the best electric rates in Texas for your home, family and usage habits. Check out Everything Energy’s innovative search tools to narrow your options and choose the best plan for you.

With the start of 2025, did you make your New Year’s resolution(s)? While health, wellness, organizing and finance-related goals may be top-of-mind, it’s also a perfect time to start a few new habits to become more energy efficient at home. The result could lead to less expensive power bills and a lower environmental impact — both of which are positive anyway you look at it.

Here are some simple electricity-related resolutions to consider that won’t take much of your energy to achieve (plus some advice on when to compare energy prices):

Know when to turn the lights off

Lighting costs make up around 15% of an average home’s electricity use, but turning them off when you leave a room is not always the answer. That’s because switching lights on or off can lower their operating life. The Department of Energy suggests the following guidelines for each type of lighting:

• Incandescent and halogen: Turn off whenever they’re not needed, since they’re inefficient.
• Compact fluorescent lamps (CFLs): Leave on if you’ll be out of a room for 15 minutes or less; turn off if you’ll be out of a room for more than 15 minutes. The operating life of CFLs is affected by the number of times they are switched on and off.
• Light-emitting diodes (LEDs): Because the operating life of LEDs is unaffected by turning them on and off, it’s smart to turn them off whenever you leave a room.
  

Upgrade instead of replacing

Light bulb burned out? Dishwasher at the end of its life? If an older item wears out, don’t just replace it — see what energy efficient options are available.

For instance, a 60-watt incandescent bulb can be upgraded to an equivalent 43-watt halogen bulb, a 13-15 watt compact fluorescent lamp (CFL) or a 9- to 12 watt light-emitting diode (LED).  An older dishwasher could be upgraded to an ENERGY STAR®-certified model.

While these may cost more upfront, they’re often less expensive overall when you account for energy savings and durability.

Make a 2-degree shift

The Department of Energy estimates a 10% savings on heating and cooling by adjusting your thermostat 7°F -10°F from its regular setting for 8 hours a day. If this isn’t possible, try going 2°F lower than your normal heat setting in winter and 2°F higher than your typical air conditioning setting in summer. Even this small shift can make a difference in your usage.

Get creative for nighttime comfort

Instead of relying on your heater or air conditioner overnight, try some other ways to stay comfortable.

In winter:

• Put a hot water bottle between your sheets to stay warm.
• Wear insulating fabrics like wool, fleece and down.
• Cuddle up with an electric blanket that automatically turns off after an hour.

In summer:

• Put your pillowcase or sheet in the freezer for 15 minutes before going to bed to instantly cool down.
• Wear breathable fabrics like cotton, linen and chambray.
• Sleep with a fan on.

Adjust your water heating temperature

The Consumer Protection Safety Commission recommends lowering your water heater to 120°F to avoid scalding. This also helps conserve energy, saving you money without sacrificing comfort.

Substitute cold water for hot

Water heaters account for around 18% of the average home’s energy use. Choosing cold water when possible will prevent your water heater from working overtime. Whether it’s taking a shorter shower or using the cold water setting on your washing machine, every little bit adds up.

Cook conscientiously

If your recipe allows, try using another appliance that might be more energy efficient such as a microwave, slow cooker, or pressure cooker.

Compare energy prices

While adding these little habits to your routine, it also makes financial sense to compare energy prices of different plans and providers whenever your current contract is coming up for renewal. You don’t want to miss out on something that suits you better, like a different term length, a better rate, a time-of-use plan or an option with extra perks.

Remember, it never hurts to shop for energy — and comparing energy prices is simple using Everything Energy’s advanced search tools and filters.

On Election Day, it’s easy to get wrapped up in the chaos, stress and 24-hour news cycle surrounding the presidential election. But is it the best way to use your energy compared to other possible activities? After you’ve cast your vote and done your civic duty, you can opt out of the media coverage for your peace of mind.

Here are 9 electricity-free activities for Election Day that can help you take a break while unplugging and reducing energy usage at home.

Electricity-free activity #1: Go for a walk

Take a stroll to clear your mind and get a dose of fresh air. Walking around your neighborhood or in a nearby park helps you focus on nature and gives your eyes a break from screens. Plus, it’s great exercise!

Electricity-free activity #2: Read a book

Instead of scrolling through the latest news on your phone, pick up a book. Reading a physical book doesn’t use electricity, and it’s a great way to escape into a new world or learn something new. For lighter fare, try a magazine or even a comic book.

Electricity-free activity #3: Meditate or do yoga

Mindfulness exercises, like deep breathing or meditation, or yoga are perfect activities for winding down from a hectic election season.

Electricity-free activity #4: Journal

If you have a lot on your mind, writing in a journal can be a great outlet. Jotting down your thoughts and feelings or listing things you’re grateful for can help reduce stress and take on a positive perspective.

Electricity-free activity #5: Create something

Arts and crafts are a great distraction from the day’s drama. Painting, knitting, scrapbooking and more let you unwind while making something special. The only power required is the power of your own imagination!

Electricity-free activity #6: Catch up with a friend or loved one

Whether it’s your best friend, spouse or a friend you haven’t seen in a while, they will probably welcome the distraction of a screen-free meetup as the votes slowly trickle in.

Electricity-free activity #7: Play cards or a board game

Gather your family or friends for a fun game night. Board games and card games don’t require any electricity and are a great way to bond and share some laughs.

Electricity-free activity #8: Declutter

If you can’t shake the stress of today’s election results, at least put your nervous energy to good use and tackle some of the excess in your home. Since a cluttered environment has been proven to raise levels of cortisol (a stress hormone), decluttering can have a positive impact far beyond just Election Day.

Electricity-free activity #9: Sleep

Sometimes, the best way to unplug is to rest. A quick nap can recharge your energy without using any; if it’s late in the day when you get home from work, simply go to bed early. The news will always be there for you in the morning, but tonight, you can escape and catch a few extra Z’s.

Compare energy prices — the key to lowering your electricity bills

Whether you unplug on Election Day or tune in all evening to watch state-by-state results, don’t forget the power of an energy compare exercise. If you compare energy plan terms, perks and pricing, you can find the best energy plan for your home and needs — no matter which candidate wins. Start shopping today.

September marks the beginning of Intergenerational Month. During this time, people from varying age groups are encouraged to befriend, connect, and learn from each other.

This month, try electricity-free ways to connect with people from different generations. You’ll not only be forging new relationships but also helping the planet and cutting back on your electricity cost for the month.

Electricity-free activities

Use one or all of the following ideas for an unplugged Intergenerational Month that minimizes electricity cost and usage:

Write a letter

Slow down and take part in the lost art of letter writing. Exchange handwritten letters with someone from a different generation and forge a deeper connection than email or text could ever provide. Plus, who doesn’t love opening their mailbox and finding a note from someone special?

Play a board game

Memory©, Rummikub©, Checkers, Monopoly©, Trouble©, Chutes and Ladders©… the possibilities are endless, and so is the fun. A little friendly competition can create laughter, conversation, and a shared experience to reflect fondly on.

Take a walk

Go for a leisurely walk in nature and let the conversation energize you. In addition to promoting physical health, walking is a low-stress, low-pressure way to bond.

Make friends with a retiree

Making friends with a retiree is a great way to brighten a senior citizen’s day. If you listen carefully and ask questions, you’ll learn something new — and leave with a smile.

Share memories

Take turns describing meaningful memories from your past. Sharing stories can bridge generational gaps, reveal fascinating insights, and fuel interesting conversations.

Take a class together

Look for a mutually enjoyable class at your local community college, YMCA, or library. Experiencing a new subject together can help you connect and spark new interests.

Paint, draw, or color

If a formal class isn’t your cup of tea, get artistic through painting, drawing, or coloring together. These self-expression activities can help you relax, forget about your problems, and let creativity reign.

Play 20 questions

Get a conversation flowing by taking turns asking each other 20 questions about the other one’s life, interests, and preferences. You may learn you have more in common than you think. And the electricity cost for a good chat is $0.

Do a puzzle

Whether it’s a crossword, jigsaw, or other puzzle, solving something together will be entertaining and satisfying. It may also reveal surprising differences in how you approach and solve problems.

Read aloud

Take turns reading out loud from a new book (or old favorite). This activity is great because you’ll spend hours of cozy, quality time together during your reading sessions.

Have a dance party

Music is universal, so grab your battery-operated device and turn on music from both participants’ generations and boogey down. Dancing together to the oldies, punk rock, 90’s pop, and today’s hits is a joyful way to get together.

Garden

Planting, pruning, harvesting veggies, or even weeding in the garden can bring generations together in the Great Outdoors while producing something beautiful.

These are just a few of the many energy-free ways that people of all ages can get together during September’s Intergenerational Month — and all year! With some creativity and planning, we can all get back to connecting face-to-face without any electricity cost involved.

Compare power plans no matter your age

Anyone renting or owning a home, from Gen Z to Baby Boomers, must choose an electricity plan to power their abode. Search Everything Energy today for electricity rates in Texas and compare power plans to find the one that best meets your needs.

Commercial electricity rates can be a significant line item on a district’s budget. The nearly 100,000 public K-12 schools in the U.S. represent about 5% of commercial building energy consumption. These schools spend more than $8 billion annually on energy — yet up to 30% of school energy is wasted!

This means there’s room for energy-saving efforts, which can help save money. The savings could be allocated to more beneficial school resources or used to lessen residential school taxes.

With a new school year just around the corner for many Texas teachers and students, it’s the perfect time to think about ways to help the planet by saving energy in the classroom.

Back-to-school power tips

Here are some helpful tips for teachers and students to help save power in schools:

Explain the importance of energy conservation

Teachers can plant a seed in young minds for a brighter future by explaining, in an age-appropriate way, why it’s important to conserve resources like electricity. Students will start understanding the “why” behind energy-saving efforts instead of just seeing them as more tasks to complete.

Practice energy awareness

Once students know better why they should conserve electricity, everyone can have their energy radars on alert and look for ways to use less energy. Whether it’s turning off the lights while watching a video, upcycling materials (since it takes energy to create them) during arts and crafts, or sharing a classroom laptop with a classmate, being energy-aware will become automatic as the weeks go on.

Turn off electronics and lights when not in use

Speaking of electronic devices, turning them off after use will help save energy. Many classrooms have one device per student. Think of all the power that could be saved if the more than 75 million U.S. students made this a classroom habit.

While energy use varies from school to school, lighting is typically one of the top energy end uses. Turning off lights in bathrooms, unused classrooms, and during recess can make an impact.

Make a game of it

Fun lessons are lessons that stick, so make learning about saving energy enjoyable. Who will be on energy patrol in the classroom each day? How many ways can students brainstorm to be more energy efficient at school or home? Could the class earn a party after a month of their energy awareness efforts? Having students get creative and become part of the solution empowers them to see things differently than older generations.

Discuss energy across subjects

Energy is everywhere, from science and math to social studies and language arts. Why not incorporate energy conservation into lesson plans? Here are a few ideas to get the ball rolling:

• Science: Build a solar oven or conduct an energy audit of the school
• Math: Graph the school’s energy usage over the last 12 months or calculate how much electricity a school appliance costs to operate using a watt meter
• Social studies: Compare energy usage in different countries or discuss how electricity usage has changed over time
• Language arts: Write a persuasive essay about the importance of using less electricity or create posters to hang around the school encouraging energy conservation

In addition to these tips, check out the thorough ENERGY STAR® Energy Efficiency Student Toolkit for more ideas and valuable information for students of all ages.

Energy providers that offer commercial electricity rates in Texas

Many retail electricity providers who supply homes across Texas with energy also offer commercial electricity rates for businesses, organizations and public schools. Trusted residential power providers like Direct Energy, Reliant Energy and Green Mountain Energy also provide power in schools and other large groups.

School districts can potentially save money by switching to a better commercial electricity rate from one of these providers, in addition to energy-saving efforts by teachers and students.

Streamline your home energy search

Check out Everything Energy’s powerful search tools to find the best electricity plan for your home and needs. You can easily filter, search and compare electricity plans and providers here.

Why waste money on electricity and water for your outdoor spaces when you can be eco-conscious and efficient? Check out these cheap energy-saving/water-saving ways to spruce up your landscaping and potentially start saving on your utility bills.

Plant shade trees

If your home gets minimal shade during the day, you’re most likely using a lot of air conditioning to stay cool in summer. Instead of running the A/C 24/7, try planting trees that offer some relief from the hot summer days.

Experts suggest planting deciduous trees in an arc around your home’s east, southeast, south, southwest and west faces. Deciduous trees can block sunlight from directly hitting your house. Unlike evergreens, deciduous trees will be bare during the colder months, letting the sunshine warm your home.

Since heating and cooling can make up approximately 50% of a household’s electricity use, planting shade trees strategically can greatly impact your energy bill. The U.S. Department of Energy estimates that carefully positioned trees could save up to 25% of a typical home’s energy use. It’s also a win for the environment, as trees help absorb atmospheric carbon dioxide.

Use solar lighting

What’s better than cheap energy? Free energy! Solar lighting is all the rage, and for good reason. Capturing energy from the sun’s rays and converting it into electricity for free is a no-brainer compared to wiring lamps and lights to a power source.

Plus, solar lighting options abound! Choose from post-top and pole lamps, ground or tabletop floor lamps, recessed, or accent lighting. Use them on your front porch, to line your driveway or walkway, to power your late-night deck party and more. Just remember to keep the glass or plastic that encases the solar cell clean so the sun can recharge it properly.

Water wisely

Before you reach for the hose or program your sprinkler system, confirm that you’re making the most of your watering efforts. One simple way to water efficiently is to do it in the morning, before 10 a.m.

Some people believe watering in the evening after temperatures cool down is better. However, moisture can attach to plants overnight and may cause fungus or other diseases. But watering in the early morning gives that water time to soak into plant roots before the hot weather evaporates it. (Since Texas has brutal summers, the earlier you can water, the better!)

Another smart watering strategy for a garden is to use a drip irrigation system. This method provides a slow, steady, and even watering of plant roots that reduces water waste.

These water-efficient landscaping strategies can help you drastically reduce your yard watering, which can lower the water bill.

Find cheap energy plans to fit your budget

Energy and water efficient landscaping techniques are just two ways to try and lower your utility bills. Another way is to search for cheap energy plans from Texas electricity providers you can trust and sign up for the one that best suits your needs and budget. To start your search, compare pricing and enroll within minutes, visit Everything Energy.

With energy pricing being a significant expense for most, energy-efficient homes and features are gaining popularity with home buyers nationwide.

A National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) What Home Buyers Really Want study showed that 15% of home buyers would pay more for a home described as “environmentally friendly.” Further, 57% of home buyers would pay $5,000 or more above the home’s price for energy-efficient upgrades that would save them $1,000 a year in utility costs. And, of course, electricity plays a large role in the environment and utility bills.

So, whether you’re selling your home soon or planning to make upgrades, check out the energy-saving features buyers seek that could net you a strong return on investment (ROI).

Revamp your HVAC system

With space heating and cooling among most homes’ top three energy-consuming appliances, give your HVAC (heating, ventilation, and air conditioning) system special consideration. Is your current HVAC equipment getting old? You have a few options for making heating and air conditioning more efficient.

You could consider replacing it with an all-in-one electric air-source heat pump, which is more efficient and may use less energy than a traditional HVAC system. Plus, according to a study by Nature Energy, homes with an electric air-source heat pump enjoyed an average 4.3-7.1% price premium when sold.

You could also replace your HVAC components with more efficient machinery. For example, an ENERGY STAR®-rated air conditioner uses about 8% less energy than a conventional new model.

Or you could convert your HVAC system from fossil fuel to an electric heat pump (also known as HVAC electrification). This could yield a 66% ROI, according to national averages from Remodeling Magazine’s 2024 Cost vs. Value Report. That’s in addition to lowering your carbon footprint and any monthly savings on your cost of energy.

Install a heat pump water heater

Water heating accounts for about 18% of household electrical usage in an average U.S. home. Upgrading to a heat pump water heater can increase your home’s value by making it more energy efficient.

According to Energy.gov, an ENERGY STAR®-rated heat pump water heater is up to 4 times more efficient and uses 70% less energy than a standard model. It’s estimated that this type of water heater can save up to $550 in annual electricity costs for a family of four.

Update your windows

Upgrading to ENERGY STAR®-rated windows ranks as the #4 most-wanted feature in NAHB’s What Home Buyers Really Want list, with 39% of surveyed home buyers labeling them as “essential/must haves” and another 44% rating them as a “desirable” feature.

If your budget won’t allow you to make this upgrade, don’t despair. You can often fix drafty windows with insulation and by sealing air leaks, which is more economical and can still impress home buyers and their inspectors.

Insulate your attic

Properly insulating your attic (and sealing air leaks around doors and windows) can make your home more energy efficient. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) estimates that effective air sealing and insulation throughout a home can save homeowners 15% on heating and cooling costs. And Realtor.com lists attic insulation as an energy-efficiency improvement that offers one of the best returns on investment.

The amount of insulation your home needs depends on your local climate. Use this R-Value map and chart to determine how much insulation different areas of your home should have.

Consider adding solar panels

Rooftop solar can be a very attractive feature to potential home buyers for three big reasons.

First, any electricity generated by the home’s solar panels is energy that doesn’t have to be bought, reducing the monthly cost of energy.

Second, the “buyback” or “payback” plans from retailers like Green Mountain Energy and Reliant Energy, which give you bill credits for selling back any excess solar energy produced by your panels, is a favorable solar energy pricing model.

And third, using renewable energy helps lower the homeowner’s carbon footprint.

According to a Zillow study, installing solar panels has a large upfront cost, but homes with solar-energy systems sell for up to 4.1% more.

Upgrade your kitchen appliances

As the heart of many homes, a kitchen’s condition can make or break a real estate sale. An updated kitchen with ENERGY STAR®-rated appliances ranks in the Top 10 Most Wanted features in NAHB’s What Home Buyers Really Want list, with 33% of surveyed home buyers naming it an “essential/must have” and another 48% rating it as a “desirable” feature.

In addition to providing a sleek look, modern appliances are more energy-efficient than older models, resulting in lower energy costs for buyers. According to one estimate, upgraded kitchen appliances have an average ROI of 60-80%.

Don’t forget about the Energy Efficient Home Improvement Credit and rebates

The federal government offers up to $3,200 in tax credits annually for qualified energy-efficient home improvements made before January 1, 2033. 

Qualifying expenses include insulation, exterior doors and windows, home energy audits by a qualified home energy auditor, central air conditioners, certain types of water heaters, electric or natural gas heat pumps and heat pump water heaters, and more. Find more details on the IRS page, Energy Efficient Home Improvement Credit.

Many ENERGY STAR®-rated appliances and electronics offer rebates, as well. If you purchase one of these appliances, make sure to check the ENERGY STAR® rebate finder so you don’t miss out on additional savings.

Find energy pricing, electricity providers, and more with Everything Energy

Not ready to make upgrades but still want to lower your monthly cost of energy? Try a new electricity plan from a trusted Texas electricity provider. Use our personalized search tools to narrow down your options, compare energy pricing between plans and sign up today.

Note: This article is for informational purposes only. It is not intended to provide, and should not be relied on for tax, legal, or accounting advice. You should consult a tax professional for details and advice on tax credits and eligibility.

If you’re planning a 4^th of July BBQ this weekend, you’re not alone. Almost 70% of Americans will have a cookout to celebrate Independence Day. Whether you’re hosting a large gathering or spending time with your immediate family, you can still make it an energy-efficient occasion by following these easy, helpful tips approved by energy providers in Texas.

Tip #1: Keep the party outdoors

Make your 4th of July BBQ a fun and energy-efficient outdoor affair. By raising your air conditioner temperature and keeping the party outside (bathroom breaks are allowed, of course!), you’ll save energy and encourage unplugged activities like yard games and sports competitions. It’s a win-win for the environment and your enjoyment!

Tip #2: Cool off naturally

Even though you’ll be outside in the heat, you and your party can still stay comfortable using energy-free strategies. For example, seek out shade under a patio umbrella, awning, or tree to get relief from the direct sunlight. Or keep a cooling towel around your neck. And keep a supply of ice-cold beverages on hand to stay hydrated. You won’t even miss your air-conditioned living room when you plan ahead!

Tip #3: Serve cold apps and sides

Yes, a cookout or BBQ signals hot food will be served. But aside from grilling, you can avoid heat-producing appliances by serving chilled apps and side dishes like salad, fruit platters, and guac or cowboy caviar with chips. Since your refrigerator is always running anyway, you won’t be using any additional electricity for these sides. Plus, cold foods always pair well with hot summer days!

Tip #4: Cook with energy-efficient appliances

If you need to cook some items in your kitchen, you can still minimize energy usage by utilizing efficient appliances. So, if a pressure cooker, slow cooker, or microwave can do the job, use one of these instead of your oven or stove.

Tip #5: Use solar lighting

If your 4^th of July BBQ stretches late into the night, use solar lighting instead of traditional lights to keep the area well-lit and energy efficient. Solar lighting options abound, from string lights and tiki torches to floodlights and more. You’ll save electricity while basking in a nice, warm glow.

Discover even more ways to minimize electricity usage this Fourth of July >

Celebrate energy independence by shopping for energy providers in Texas

You have the power to choose your retail electricity provider and the electric plan that best suits your home, family, and needs. Shop Everything Energy for Texas energy providers that customers are raving about.

Are you feeling the heat? With average highs in the 90s already for many Texas cities, you don’t want to spend the next several months running an energy-inefficient air conditioner. Here are 8 tips from Houston energy providers to help you maximize your air conditioner’s efficiency and keep your home cool — without breaking the bank.

#1. Keep your air conditioner clean

A clean air conditioner works more efficiently. Dust and debris can clog your AC’s air filters, which makes your unit work harder than needed to keep you cool. Clean or replace filters regularly to make sure you’re getting the most out of your AC.

Also, Direct Energy recommends to clear debris (like leaves and branches) from around your outdoor air conditioning unit, and don’t block inside vents.

#2. Change air filters regularly

A dirty air filter can reduce air flow and make your air conditioner work overtime. Changing air filters regularly will help improve your AC’s efficiency, states Reliant Energy. Tip: Set a recurring event on your calendar so you don’t forget!

#3. Use curtains, shades, or blinds to keep heat out

Sun shining directly into windows can heat up a room quickly and force your AC to work harder. Closing your curtains, shades, or blinds helps keep that heat out and takes some stress off your air conditioner.

If you need that bright light, though, Cirro Energy recommends tilting blinds upward to redirect the light toward the ceiling. Because heat rises, it will at least be directed upward while you enjoy cooler air below.

#4. Seal costly air leaks

While keeping heat outside helps your air conditioner be more efficient, keeping that cool air inside is just as important. Make sure you’re not making your AC work harder than it needs to by sealing leaks around windows and doors, Green Mountain Energy and other Houston energy providers suggest.

#5. Avoid using heat-producing appliances

Ovens, stoves, and clothes dryers generate heat in your home, which can make your AC work extra hard to keep you cool. Try to use these appliances at night, reminds Cirro Energy — or avoid them completely by grilling outdoors and line-drying clothes.

#6. Be strategic with your thermostat settings

For every degree below 78° F you lower your thermostat, you’ll see a 5%-7% increase in your cooling costs, advises Discount Power.

That means letting your air conditioner run at the same, cool temperature all day can result in a high energy bill (and unneeded extra wear). Raise the thermostat a few degrees when you’re away, and let it rest at night.

You can also use a programmable or smart thermostat to set an automatic schedule that aligns with yours.

#7. Schedule an AC checkup

Keep your air conditioner running efficiently by scheduling regular AC checkups with an HVAC technician, suggests Reliant Energy. With cleaned coils, correct refrigerant levels, and repairs completed as needed, your AC unit will be ready for the long summer ahead.

#8. Consider an upgrade

If you have an old and inefficient air conditioner, it may be more cost-effective in the long run to upgrade to a newer, more energy-efficient model.

When shopping for a new air conditioner, Direct Energy recommends you look for a high Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio (SEER) and make sure you get the correctly sized unit for your home.

Find Texas electric companies — including Houston energy providers — and plans that meet your needs.

By following these simple tips from energy providers in Houston, you can keep your home cool all summer long while maximizing your air conditioner’s efficiency — and potentially save money on your energy bills, too!

Another way to help you save? Find an electricity plan that fits your home, your family, and your lifestyle to a T. Start shopping today with Everything Energy.

Even with the best power company in Texas, energy bills in the Lone Star State can spike in summer. With children finishing the school year, now is the perfect time to implement some energy-saving activities for kids that will help keep summer electric bills under control.

#1 Go screen-free for a day

Kids up to age 8 spend an average of 2.5 hours in front of a screen each day, while children age 8-10 are in front of a screen around 6 hours per day.

Take a break from digital entertainment by challenging the kids (or the whole family!) to unplug from electronics for a day. That includes TVs, computers, tablets, gaming consoles, and cell phones. Here are just a few ways they could have an enjoyable, screen-free day:

• Outdoor activities with friends
• Board games
• Reading
• Writing a letter to a grandparent or favorite teacher
• Arts and crafts

The options are endless — and the results are worth it!

#2 Experiment with sunshine

Take science outdoors with exciting experiments that use heat from the sun. A few possible experiments that kids could do with an adult include:

• Pizza box solar oven
• DIY solar-powered boat
• Greenhouse effect model

Or, just let them make up experiments with the heat using their creativity and curiosity. How fast does an ice cube melt in the sun vs. in the shade? How hot does soil feel on the surface vs. digging 3” into it? What color objects get the hottest and stay the coolest in direct sunlight?

#3 Hang laundry on a clothesline

Skip the clothes dryer and go electricity-free by showing your kids how to hang laundry on a clothesline. This energy-saving activity of hanging up and taking down laundry probably won’t even feel like a chore if they make a game of it.

Plus, it’s easy, it’s calming, it disinfects fabric, it helps clothes last longer — and it’s good for the planet. Air-drying clothes instead of using a dryer can reduce an average household’s carbon footprint by 2,400 pounds per year.

#4 Be energy helpers around the home

Start your children on the path to eco-consciousness by having them be energy-saving superheroes at home. Specific tasks they can help with include:

• Turning off lights when leaving a room
• Unplugging unused small electronics to avoid vampire power
• Closing doors and windows when the air conditioner is on

They’ll get a sense of responsibility and take pride in helping protect the environment while also helping you save money on the bill from your Texas power company.

#5 Use light the smart way

Reduce the use of artificial lighting during the day by encouraging kids to open curtains and blinds to let sunlight into the room.

Also, teach them to close those curtains and blinds in unused rooms. This will block out the hot summer sun and reduce heat gain, which means your air conditioner won’t have to work as hard.

#6 Have an outdoors-only day

Give your air conditioner a break by dedicating a day to outdoor fun and games. While you’re outside, you can reasonably raise the temperature on your thermostat, so your A/C unit doesn’t need to work as hard, which helps shave some kilowatt hours off the electricity bill you get from your power company in Texas. Plus, outdoor activities can promote a healthy lifestyle.

Potential activities include:

• Picnics
• Pool/sprinkler/water balloon fun
• Nature walks or hikes
• Naps in the shade
• Gardening
• Yard games

Don’t forget to hydrate during all that outdoor fun!

Find a power company in Texas to get you through the hottest summer days.

Need to shop for electricity? Everything Energy has all the tools you need to make apples-to-apples comparisons of Texas energy providers, plans, and rates so you can make an informed decision for your household.