As summer temperatures climb, smart choices about water, gas and electricity can lead to helpful savings. With two straight months of rising inflation straining consumers' wallets, soaring gas prices have caused around half of Americans to cut back on household expenses. Utility bills, projected to rise 8 percent this summer, offer a potential area for savings, according to Patrick Gambel, owner of New Orleans-based General Heating & Air Conditioning.
Wise with Water
The average American spends 16.1 minutes in the shower, using around 32 gallons of water at a cost of about 70 cents per shower, according to a 2024 survey from Harris and luxury bathroom fixture firm Badeloft. Cutting showers to four minutes could save a four-person household around $60 a month. Other water-saving tips include filling bathtubs with less water and not letting the faucet run unnecessarily while brushing teeth or washing dishes.
Go Easy on the Gas
The latest inflation report shows utility gas up 3 percent year-on-year. To combat rising prices, awareness is key. The shower is a hotspot: 69 percent of Americans prefer very hot water. Dropping the temperature from blazing hot to warm can reduce energy costs. Gambel advises being more mindful of hot water and heat usage throughout the day.
Smart Season
Smart thermostats connect to the internet, allowing an app to fine-tune temperature settings based on usage patterns. Consumer Reports notes that using a smart thermostat can save up to 8 percent on energy bills, translating to around $13 monthly savings based on the average May 2026 electricity bill of $163. For those without smart thermostats, setting a traditional thermostat to 'Auto' and changing AC filters monthly can save money by improving system efficiency and airflow.
Ice, Ice Baby
For those seeking unconventional methods, Gambel recommends placing a bucket or bowl of ice under a fan for smaller rooms. This trick helps blow cooler air without cranking up the AC. While it won't replace your AC system, it can temporarily make a space feel cooler and more comfortable.
