How Bathing & Showering With Cold Water Can Cut Your Summer Utility Bills
Summer is here, and the heat is on! As temperatures rise, many homeowners may notice that their utility bills are going up as well. Keeping homes comfortable with air conditioning and amenities can add up quickly.
To combat this, you can make many small changes around your home to reduce your energy usage and costs. One of these is to use cold water instead of hot water for bathing and showering. In this blog, we’ll discuss why turning down the temperature can help you save big this Summer.
Why Do Utility Bills Rise in the Summer for Massachusetts Homeowners?
In New England, the Summers can be as brutally hot as the Winters can be cold. Not only does the heat make the days sticky and uncomfortable, but it also makes staying cool an expensive endeavor. Air conditioning systems, fans, and other cooling appliances account for a significant portion of the average Summertime utility bill. Additionally, when people feel hot, they tend to shower and bathe more frequently in an effort to cool down. This raises the cost of utilities even further by requiring more hot water.
How Can Massachusetts Homeowners Cut Down On Utility Bills?
Luckily, there are a few ways in which Massachusetts homeowners can save on their energy costs. Some small changes that can make a big difference include:
- Replacing older air conditioning units with EnergyStar-certified models
- Insulating windows and doors
- Water your lawn with a custom automatic irrigation system
- Using a fan instead of an air conditioner
- Choosing cold water instead of hot for bathing and showering
- Unplugging or turning off appliances when not in use
- Installing an automatic timer or motion sensor for outdoor lighting
How Does Showering With Cold Water Over Hot Help Cut Down On Utility Bills?
One simplest and most effective way to save on utility bills is to switch to cold water for bathing and showering. Hot water requires more energy to heat, resulting in a higher bill at the end of the month. Each home’s hot water heater is rated to provide a certain amount of hot water per hour. If you use more than this rating, then the heater will need to work overtime, leading to an increased energy bill. By using cold water instead, you’ll save on energy costs while still being able to get a refreshing shower or bath.
How to Ease Into Cold Water Showers
Even though using cold water to bathe and shower may seem intimidating, it is actually very refreshing once you get used to it. To ease into the transition, start by taking a warm shower, then gradually reduce the temperature until it’s cold. This will help you get used to the temperature without feeling uncomfortable.
Benefits of Taking Cold Showers
In addition to helping you save on energy costs, cold showers also offer plenty of health benefits. These include:
- Reduced stress levels
- Improved circulation and blood flow
- Relief from muscle aches, tension headaches, and other soreness
- Clearer skin and hair
- Improved immunity
Contact Berardi Irrigation for Professional Irrigation & Landscape Lighting Services for Better Home Efficiency in Canton, MA
If you are looking to reduce your Summer energy usage and costs, contact Berardi Irrigation! Located in Canton, MA, we service the entire Boston Metro area with professional irrigation, landscape lighting, and more. Our services are designed to improve the efficiency of your lawn and your home while saving you money in the long term. To learn more, visit our website or give us a call today at 781-828-2029.
