Americans will pay between $581 and $858 on energy bills this summer — but there are eight ways to beat the price hikes

SUMMER is fast approaching and so are the scorching temperatures that come with the change of season.

Americans are expected to pay between $581 and $858 in energy bills this summer, but there are several ways to beat the heat and prices.

Energy bills are expected to cost Americans an average of $719 between June and September per year. data from the National Energy Assistance Directors Association, or NEADA.

Those living in the West-South Central region, which encompasses states such as Texas, Oklahoma, Arkansas and Louisiana, could see an energy bill of up to $858 in the coming months.

This is a $15 increase in cooling costs from last summer.

The Central-South West region has the highest average electricity bill forecast compared to other regions of the country.

The lowest average electric bill estimate is $581 for those in the North Central area.

This region includes Wisconsin, Illinois, Indiana, Ohio and Michigan.

EIGHT TIPS

About 16% of American households are late paying their energy bills, according to NEADA.

Some low-income families may not be able to cool their homes and may even have their power cut off.

However, there are several ways Americans can reduce their energy bills.

For example, they can purchase energy-efficient lighting and appliances.

Americans can also seal doors and windows to prevent air from leaking inside.

Another easy step you can take is to close your blinds and curtains to block out sunlight.

Americans can also consider purchasing solar panels or alternative renewable energy sources to reduce their energy bills.

Tech-savvy homeowners may also choose to use programmable thermostats, which automatically adjust your home’s temperature while you’re away.

Air Conditioning Tips to Keep You Cool This Summer

Here are some tips to make your air conditioner worth it without exactly making you pay more, for Apartment Therapy:

• Move the electronics away from the thermostat as they can confuse you into thinking the room is hotter than it really is.
• Keep your air conditioning unit in the shade
• Be sure to clean your A/C filter
• Leave your thermostat alone
• Try not to move the ventilation openings too much
• Check your air ducts
• Use your fan

Another easy solution is to unplug your electronics and appliances when they are not being used to save energy.

Additionally, Americans can reduce how often they run their air conditioning by using ceiling fans to circulate air.

And finally, they can wash clothes in cold water and air dry them to reduce energy consumption.

The US Sun previously reported on ways to reduce your energy bills.

A little-known furniture trick could save you up to $40 on energy bills this summer — it’s a quick, free fix.

Plus, four energy hacks to cut your electric bill by $100 — including exactly how to face your blinds.