ZAP! Energy Saving Tips for Summer with Static Shock

When summertime hits, energy bills can be pretty shocking. Temperatures aren’t the only things on the rise during the warmer months.

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Fortunately, super hero Static Shock knows all about energy manipulation. We’ve got a few energy-saving tips inspired by Virgil Hawkins himself to help you reach a new Milestone in lowering your bill. Time to flex that superpower!

Throw Some Shade

Sure, modern appliances are helpful, just like Static sometimes uses fancy hero gadgets. But you can also keep it old school with fans and open windows, especially if your area cools down at night. Try closing the doors or pulling the shades of rooms that aren’t in use — cool air will stay pooled in open rooms instead.

Keep Your Cool

When he’s up against an enemy like Hot-Streak, it’s tempting for Static to blast everything he’s got. But a little power conservation goes a long way. You can use the same strategy by mindfully operating your AC. Rather than constantly shifting up and down, and losing valuable energy, find your perfect temp with smaller adjustments. Think little zaps, not blasts.

Charge Responsibly

Sometimes enemies sneak in for a surprise attack, but savvy heroes like Static know how to prepare. In your home, you can fend off phantom electricity charges by unplugging devices that aren’t in use. The biggest culprits for sucking up energy are computers and gaming consoles. Another trick is to multitask during non-peak hours — use your dishwasher while watching your favorite super hero show to conserve energy and relax.

Spring Cleaning

Even heroes have to keep house. It’s important to make sure your systems are optimized for peak performance. Before whizzing out to fight crime, Virgil makes sure he’s all tuned up. Do the same for your home! Every spring, before the weather heats up, HVAC professionals can make sure your AC is ready to go with new filters. Plus, you can rearrange TVs and other heat-generating devices away from an AC unit.

Water You Waiting For?

When he’s fighting a water-powered enemy, Static has to be strategic. The same goes for your modern home. According to the DOE, “Water heating accounts for about 18% of the energy consumed in your home.” If you adjust your water heater to no more than 120 degrees Fahrenheit and optimize your laundry routine (fewer cycles with fuller loads and air drying when possible), energy costs will be much lower.

Light It Up

Lastly, lightbulbs can make a world of difference for energy bills. Static is an expert at knowing what objects around him conduct electricity best. You can follow his example by using CFL or LED lightbulbs. These energy-efficient bulbs use up to 85% less energy than traditional bulbs. Start by putting them in your most-used fixtures and see the light for yourself.

Just because it’s summer, don’t let your energy bill go haywire. Once you try out these energy-saving tips, you’ll be in for a shock — the good kind! We have a feeling you’re on the Virg of an awesome summer already.