When Memphis summer temperatures soar, so can your energy bills. Whether you’re planning to stay put or thinking about how to get the house ready to sell, improving your home’s energy efficiency is a smart move. From the sizzling streets of Frayser to the shaded lanes of East Memphis, homeowners are looking for ways to stay cool without overspending.
In a city with a balanced housing market—where rising home sales meet increasing inventory, according to The Commercial Appeal—making your home more efficient can also help it stand out. Especially in popular neighborhoods like Cordova and East Memphis, upgrades that lower energy costs can be a powerful selling point.
Here’s your guide to smart summer energy-saving strategies, with practical tips tailored for Memphis homeowners.
1. Adjust Your Thermostat
Start by setting your thermostat higher when you’re away or sleeping. The Alliance to Save Energy reports that raising it by 7–10°F for several hours a day can cut HVAC energy use by up to 10% annually.
2. Use Smart Thermostats
Smart thermostats learn your habits and adjust temperatures automatically, maintaining comfort while maximizing efficiency. Bonus: Many Memphis-area utility companies offer rebates for using them.
3. Avoid Overcooling
Don’t set your AC drastically low—it won’t cool your home faster, but it will use more energy. Instead, aim for a consistent, manageable setting.
4. Use Ceiling Fans
Fans can make rooms feel up to 4°F cooler, allowing you to raise your thermostat and reduce AC use. Just remember to turn them off when leaving a room.
5. Replace HVAC Filters
Dirty filters slow down airflow, forcing your system to work harder. Clean or replace them regularly to save 5–15% on energy use.
6. Seal Windows and Doors
Hot air creeping in through gaps can seriously raise your cooling bills. Sealing these areas with caulk or weatherstripping can reduce unwanted heat gain by up to 33%, per ase.org.
7. Close Curtains During the Day
Sunlight streaming through windows can spike indoor temperatures. Drawing medium-colored curtains with white backings during peak hours can significantly reduce solar heat gain.
8. Rethink Cooking Habits
Using your oven in the summer not only heats your food but also your house. Try stovetop meals, slow cookers, or outdoor grilling to keep your kitchen (and utility bill) cooler.
9. Unplug Unused Electronics
Even when turned off, some electronics pull energy constantly. These “energy vampires” can cost you around $250 per year. Use smart power strips or unplug devices when not in use.
10. Check the Car Before Summer Trips
If you’re road-tripping this summer, ensure your vehicle runs efficiently. Well-inflated tires, smooth driving, and cruise control can save gas and reduce the load on home charging if you drive electric.
Thinking of Selling? Energy Efficiency Adds Value
In today’s competitive Memphis real estate market, a home with lower utility costs can tip the scales in your favor. Buyers in hot submarkets like East Memphis and Cordova are increasingly conscious of total ownership costs, including electricity bills.
If you’re wondering how to prepare the house for sale, start with a few of these energy upgrades. They’re budget-friendly, fast to implement, and make your home more appealing.
And suppose you’re hoping to move quickly. Companies like We Buy Houses Tennessee offer another option, allowing you to sell without requiring extensive renovations or staging.
Final Thoughts
Energy efficiency is about comfort, cost savings, and long-term value. By implementing a few smart changes, you can keep your Memphis home cooler and energy bills lower, from adjusting your thermostat to sealing up drafts.
Whether you’re planning a relaxing summer in the shade or preparing to list your property in one of the city’s most active neighborhoods, these tips provide a clear roadmap to better living and more innovative energy use.
