Arkansas summers aren’t getting any cooler, and our utility rates continue to increase year in and year out. The only sure-fire way to save money is to find ways to reduce your usage. The good news is that there are plenty of great ways to save money on your utility bills this summer without sacrificing your family’s comfort!

Gary Houston Electric has been Little Rock’s most trusted residential and commercial electrician since 1978, and we’re a phone call away when you have an electrical emergency. But you don’t have to wait until you have an emergency to schedule an in-home energy efficiency consultation. One of our energy efficiency experts can visit your home and make specific recommendations. Here are a few easy and affordable ways to reduce your family’s energy consumption this summer:

Upgrade your home lighting-LED bulbs offer the same amount of light as traditional bulbs, and they use a fraction of the wattage. An increasing number of homeowners are now also investing in smart light bulbs in an effort to further increase home automation. Smart lighting can be controlled remotely and preprogrammed to turn lights on and off even when you’re not at home. You can adjust your energy consumption using an app, and your home will appear occupied even when you’re on vacation.

Install a Programmable Thermostat-Programmable thermostats can reduce your heating and cooling costs by 10% or more if they’re programmed correctly. A programmable thermostat will adjust your temperatures up and down while you’re asleep or at work, and next-generation thermostats can intuitively learn your family’s ideal temperatures as you make adjustments. A smart thermostat can also offer energy usage reports so that you can monitor your usage more accurately.

Check your home wiring-Your home’s wiring should be inspected at least every 25 years, and even sooner if your breakers are tripping frequently or if you have any electrical outlets that are warm to the touch. You also need to install Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI) outlets in your kitchen and bathroom outlets and your outdoor outlets as an additional level of protection for you and your family.

If you have any questions, or would like to schedule service, contact us online or at 501-375-8330.