June Energy Smarts for Eastern Washington

June is a Great Time for Eastern Washington Families to Prepare for Summer Energy Use.

Hot afternoons, cool nights, and strong sunshine can quickly change how much electricity a home, shop, or farm uses from day to day. In many rural communities, summer demand is not just about keeping the house comfortable. It can also mean irrigation, outbuildings, garage refrigerators, freezers, and ventilation equipment have to work harder as temperatures rise. Taking a few simple efficiency steps now can help lower monthly bills, improve comfort, and make energy use easier to manage through the hottest weeks ahead.

Start with cooling equipment before summer really sets in. If you use a heat pump or air conditioner, clean or replace the filter, and make sure supply vents are open and unobstructed. In Eastern Washington’s dry summer climate, closing blinds or curtains on south- and west-facing windows can make a noticeable difference in the afternoon. Weatherstripping and caulking around doors and windows also help keep cooled air indoors. If temperatures drop overnight, open windows to take advantage of that cooler air when possible, then close them early to help keep the home comfortable during the day.

June is also a smart month to look beyond the thermostat. Water heating still accounts for a meaningful share of household energy use, even in summer, so consider lowering the water heater setting if appropriate and repairing any dripping water fixtures. Swap older bulbs for LEDs in garages, barns, shops, and yard lights to reduce both electricity use and maintenance.

For rural properties, it also pays to inspect pump motors, ventilation fans, and older appliances for signs of inefficiency. Small upgrades across several pieces of equipment can add up to worthwhile savings over the course of the season.

Energy efficiency is not only good for individual households. It also helps rural utilities like Columbia REA manage summer demand and serve their communities as cost-effectively as possible. This June, take a few minutes to schedule maintenance, tackle one or two easy upgrades, and check with Columbia REA for available rebates, conservation incentives, or other energy-saving resources. A little preparation at the start of summer can go a long way.

If you have any questions about how to be more energy efficient, please email cdesalvo@columbiarea.coop, or call 509-526-4041 Charlie DeSalvo, Energy Efficiency Specialist