Saving on electricity is perhaps one of toughest challenges in every household. While it’s true that there are lots of ways to do it, others still find it hard to deal with it.

Sure, you turn off the lights and unplug appliances when not in use. You’re probably even using those expensive energy-efficient devices. But still, your monthly electric bill continues creeping up.

To make things worse, it is likely to go even higher now that summer has begun. Cooling off your home this time of the year will definitely take longer than usual. If you’re using air conditioners in Malta, where temperatures rise to 27°C, expect to shell out more money on electric bill in the following months.

With the sweltering heat not going anywhere anytime soon, is there really an effective way to cut down your electric bill? Check out these 6 great energy saving hacks that will not only save electricity but your budget as well.

Color Your Roof White

Believe it or not, the color of your roof can affect the cooling capabilities of your home. In fact, a recent study revealed that white-colored roofs could cut back air-conditioning costs by 20 percent and even more on summer.

It was also noted that black or dark-colored roofs tend to attract and trap more heat from the sun, thus resulting in a higher temperature inside the house.

In Malta, many residential houses and commercial buildings are starting to embrace this idea in hopes of reducing their power consumption.

Don’t Just Switch Off, Unplug!

We usually hear that switching off a home appliance when not in use is a smart way of conserving energy. However, that may not be the case at all. Appliances left in standby mode or just simply turned off still consume electricity, which in return can increase your bills.

Instead of leaving it just like that, it’s better to unplug it. This way, you’re completely cutting off any power that may run even if it’s idle.

Use Appliances At Night

While it’s true that most appliances are useful during the day, it wouldn’t hurt to make adjustments and use them at night instead.

Appliances generate a significant amount of heat. That and the scorching daytime temperature will put extra stress on an already overworked air conditioner, making it consume more energy. If possible, try running some of these appliances at night once the temperature cools down a bit. Not only will it save you money, but it will also help the environment as well.

Do Laundry In Cold Water And Line-Dry

Washing your clothes in cold water and line-dry can also help cut down your electric bill. Apparently, an electric dryer can cost you more money, especially when done in summer.

By setting up a line-dry at home, you’re not only saving electricity but the quality of your clothes as well. In fact, line dried clothes and sheets tend to smell fresher than those that are tumble dried. Clothes that often tossed in an electric dryer are also more prone to wears and stains.

Aside from that, the ultra-violet rays from the sun also help bleach and disinfect laundry naturally.

Fill Your Fridge

Keeping your fridge full will not only benefit your stomach but your electric bill as well. You might not know it, but a well-stocked refrigerator requires less energy to stay cool than an empty one. However, it is important to leave enough space for air to circulate.

It is also essential to clean the vacuum coils several times each year. Keeping it tidy will help it function correctly and with ease, thus saving more power.

Insulate Properly And Check For Cracks

Proper insulation will make a huge difference in cooling your home and saving electricity. Make sure that your insulation is well-fitted and correctly installed. It’s also best to check for cracks on doors and windows as it will put an extra strain on your air conditioning.

If possible, seal all the cracks around doors, windows, and pipes that might release the coolness of your air conditioning and give way to more heat into the house.

These are just a few of what you can do to save energy and cut down on your expense. Remember, you don’t have to settle for huge electric bills when you can control it wisely. All you need is proper knowledge, and you’re sure to reap the benefits of these energy saving hacks.