MONTHLYINSIGHT
How to Save on Summer Utility Bills Without Sacrificing Comfort
Summer in Kern County is no joke Once the temperatures climb, it can feel like your air conditioner is running nonstop and your utility bill is climbing right along with it. The good news is that staying comfortable does not have to mean giving up control of your monthly expenses. A few smart changes around the house can make a noticeable difference.
One of the biggest places to start is with your thermostat. Even a small adjustment can impact energy use, especially during peak afternoon hours. If you are home during the day, try setting the temperature a little higher than usual and using ceiling fans to help circulate the air. Fans do not actually lower the temperature in a room, but they can make the space feel cooler, which may allow you to rely a little less on the air conditioner.
It is also important to make sure your cooling system is working as efficiently as possible. Replacing your air filter regularly is one of the simplest and most affordable things you can do A dirty filter forces your system to work harder, which can increase energy use and put extra strain on the unit. If it has been a while since your system was serviced, scheduling a seasonal tune-up can also help catch small issues before they become expensive problems.
Your windows can also play a major role in how hard your air conditioner has to work. During the hottest parts of the day, keep blinds, curtains, or shades closed, especially on windows that get direct sunlight. This helps block heat from entering the home and keeps indoor temperatures more manageable Weatherstripping around doors and windows can also help prevent cool air from escaping and hot air from getting in.
Water usage is another area where homeowners may see costs rise during the summer. Lawns, gardens, and landscaping often need more attention in the heat, but watering at the wrong time can lead to unnecessary waste. Watering early in the morning or later in the evening helps reduce evaporation and allows your landscaping to absorb more moisture. Checking sprinklers for leaks, broken heads, or overspray can also help avoid paying for water that is not actually benefiting your yard
For homeowners thinking long term, energy-efficient upgrades may be worth considering. Improvements like added insulation, better windows, smart thermostats, shade trees, or updated
appliances can help lower monthly costs and make the home more comfortable These types of upgrades can also be attractive to future buyers, especially in areas like Kern County where summer utility bills are a real consideration.
The key is to be proactive before the hottest part of the season is in full swing. Small steps taken now can help keep your home cooler, your systems running more efficiently, and your summer utility bills from taking over your budget.
Not sure which home improvements are worth the investment? Call or text The McCarty Group at 661-665SOLD. Our team can help you look at your home through a buyer’s eyes and identify the updates that may improve comfort now while also supporting your home’s value later.
Q: “I’d like to be in a new home before the new school year. When should I start looking?”
If your goal is to move before the new school year, the time to start is now, even if you are not quite ready to put a sign in the yard or start touring homes
Buying or selling takes time, and the process usually starts before most people realize For buyers, the first step should be talking with a Realtor on our team. A buyer consultation gives you a chance to talk through your goals, timeline, budget, preferred areas, and what to expect from the process. From there, we can connect you with a trusted local lender so you understand your purchasing power, estimated monthly payment, closing costs, and loan options
That early planning matters because when the right home comes on the market, you want to be ready to make an informed decision. Waiting too long can leave you scrambling to get preapproved, understand your options, or compete for a home before you feel prepared.
For sellers, there is also a lot that should happen before the home goes live Decluttering, minor repairs, cleaning up landscaping, staging key spaces, professional photos, pricing, and marketing all take time The homes that make the best first impression are usually the ones that were thoughtfully prepared before they hit the market.
And if you are buying and selling at the same time, timing becomes even more important. You may need to decide whether to sell first, buy first, make a contingent offer, request a rent-back, or use proceeds from your current home toward your next purchase
Starting now gives you time to create a strategy instead of reacting under pressure. If a summer move is on your mind, call or text The McCarty Group at 661-665-SOLD. We can help you map out the right steps, so you are ready when the time comes.
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OR WHEREVER YOU GET YOUR PODCASTS!
HOW TO LOWER YOUR SUMMER UTILITY BILLS WITHOUT SACRIFICING COMFORT (PT. 2)
HOW TO LOWER YOUR SUMMER UTILITY BILLS WITHOUT SACRIFICING COMFORT (PT. 1)
COULD YOUR FIREPLACE DELAY YOUR HOME SALE? WHAT HOME SELLERS SHOULD KNOW
WHY ISN’T IT SELLING? REASONS WHY YOUR HOME IS SITTING ON THE MARKET
Regular maintenance protects your biggest investment—your home! Be proactive now to avoid headaches later. As you check off each task below, you'll ensure your home stays in excellent condition year-round!
Inspect Sprinklers & Irrigation Systems
Before summer heat is in full swing, run your sprinklers and check for broken heads, leaks, overspray, or dry spots in the yard. A quick adjustment now can help prevent water waste and keep landscaping healthier.
Inspect Shade Structures, Patio Covers & Outdoor Furniture
With more time spent outside, check patio covers, umbrellas, shade sails, and outdoor furniture for wear, loose screws, rust, or sun damage Taking care of small repairs now can help outdoor spaces stay safe and usable all summer
Have Solar Panels Cleaned
If your home has solar panels, summer is when you want them working as efficiently as possible Dust, pollen, bird droppings, and debris can reduce performance, so consider having them professionally cleaned or checking with your solar provider for proper maintenance recommendations
Clean Ceiling Fans and Reverse Direction if Needed
Dust buildup on fan blades can circulate through your home, and the right fan direction can help rooms feel cooler In summer, ceiling fans should typically rotate counterclockwise to push cool air downward.
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