Prices are up, but you can still save money on energy costs!

We at Q-Dog have heard from plenty of Maryland customers worried about energy prices. We’re as concerned as you are and hope fuel and electricity prices will come down to earth soon.

In the meantime, we are always looking for ways to save you money by helping you make your home more energy-efficient. With that in mind, here are five tried-and-true tips for reducing energy use during the summer.

1. Shut your curtains and blinds

Don’t let the unobstructed summer sun bake your living space and make your air conditioning work harder. Keep your reflecting blinds and curtains closed during daylight hours. This also helps contain the cooled air inside your home.

2. Avoid opening your oven and fridge doors

The temperature inside your heated oven drops by at least 25 degrees every time you open the door. To avoid using more propane or natural gas for cooking, use the oven light instead.

The same goes for your refrigerator. When you hold the door open, your fridge uses more electricity to keep food cool. Decide what you want to eat before your open the refrigerator.

3. Only run full loads of dishes and clothes

Both clothes washers and dishwashers are designed to run with full loads. You waste hot water and energy when you run them half-full. You’ll run fewer cycles if you wait until there’s a full machine.

Want to save more energy? Try washing clothes and dishes on cold water settings. It still does the job but slashes the gas or heating oil you use in heating water!

4. Install a smart thermostat

You don’t need to keep the house as cool when you’re away or asleep. A smart thermostat allows you to schedule higher temperatures and give your A/C a rest. Smart thermostats can make power-saving adjustments when they sense rooms are empty, further reducing your electricity bills.

5. Take shorter and cooler showers

Did you know that heating water accounts for almost 20 percent of your home’s energy costs? But you can significantly lower your hot water expenses by taking a cooler shower during the summer. You’ll feel extra-refreshed afterward!

Also, if you shorten your daily shower by only four minutes, you’ll save 3,650 gallons of water for the year!

Are you looking for the most trusted home fuel supplier in Calvert, Charles, St. Mary’s, Southern Anne Arundel and Southern Prince George’s counties? Contact us to become a Q-Dog customer.