5 Summer Energy Saving Tips from Your Grand Rapids Electrician

Summer in Michigan brings sunshine, long days — and higher energy bills. Between air conditioning, increased water use, and more time spent at home, it’s easy to see your utility costs climb. But with a few smart changes, you can keep your energy use under control and your home running efficiently all season long.

Here are five summer energy-saving tips from Butler Electric, your trusted Grand Rapids electrician.

1. Run Your Air Conditioner Smarter, Not Harder

Air conditioning is often the biggest energy draw in the summer and during peak hours, utility companies charge more for electricity. You can reduce both cost and strain by adjusting when and how your AC runs:

• Cool off overnight when outdoor temps drop naturally

• Seal your home during the day: close windows, draw curtains, and keep doors shut

• Pre-cool your space early in the morning, then allow the AC to cycle less during peak hours

• Consider installing a programmable thermostat that adjusts based on your schedule
  

2. Charge Your EV Overnight

If you own an electric vehicle, timing matters when it comes to charging. Avoid charging during peak afternoon or early evening hours, which are typically when demand (and rates) are highest.

Instead, plug in overnight when rates are lower, and consider using a smart charger that allows you to schedule charging times. It's better for your budget and for the grid.

Need help with a home EV charger installation? We’ve got you covered.

3. Reset Your Indoor Lighting Schedule

Summer’s longer daylight hours mean you likely don’t need your lights on as long as you did in winter. If your home uses smart lights or timers, take a few minutes to reset them:

• Shift light timers later in the evening

• Turn off outdoor lighting earlier in the morning

• Use motion sensors or dimmers for less-used areas
  

4. Be Water-Wise if You’re on a Well

If your home runs on a well, every drop of water you use triggers your electric pump. That means water waste can lead to higher electricity usage — not just a higher water bill.

To conserve both:

• Avoid leaving hoses running

• Use shutoff nozzles on all outdoor spigots

• Consider smart watering devices that monitor usage or automatically shut off flow

• Water plants early or late in the day to reduce evaporation and conserve water
  

5. Upgrade to Smart Home Solutions

Summer is a great time to explore smart home energy tools — like programmable thermostats, smart plugs, and lighting schedules — that let you automate and optimize energy use.

Not sure where to start? A licensed Grand Rapids electrician like Butler Electric can help recommend and install smart upgrades that fit your home, your habits, and your budget.

Save Energy, Save Money, Stay Comfortable

You don’t have to give up comfort to cut back on your energy usage. With the right habits, and a little help from your local electrician, you can enjoy a more efficient, affordable summer at home.

Ready for an energy-saving electrical upgrade? Contact Butler Electric today for expert service and personalized solutions.