We don’t need to tell you—it’s HOT out there in Florida in July. We’re blessed to live in a time with air conditioning. But during the summer, running that air conditioning comes at a higher cost than other times of the year, especially if that cold air is slipping out through worn down seals on doors or windows or through weakened insulation.

Fortunately, there are several steps you can take to reduce those costs and increase energy efficiency in your home.

Do an energy audit

OUC customers – Did you know that OUC offers free Energy & Water Conservation Audits on your home? I had one done at my house last year, and it was eye opening. To book an appointment, go to their website and fill out the form. They are currently booking four to six weeks out. A trained and trustworthy representative will coordinate a time and date and show up at your home for the inspection. It may take up to a couple of hours, depending on the size of the home and how easily accessible everything is for the inspector.

Shortly after the inspection, you will receive a multi-page, highly detailed report outlining which money-saving home improvements would help you lower your bill. Even more, qualifying customers may be eligible for OUC grants to cover up to 85% of the cost of the recommended repairs!

OUC has several other rebates available for energy saving measures, including, but not limited to, upgraded insulation, new water heaters, windows, irrigation control, and more.

Apply for a free inspection

Don’t forget to pair the available options above with the fantastic money-saving inspections offered by Habitat Orlando & Osceola! With a wind-mitigation and/or a four-point inspection, both free for qualifying applicants through Habitat’s rebate program, homeowners reported an average $900 savings on their insurance premiums! Click here to learn more and apply.

The savings are great, but the information gathered from the inspections can help you properly prepare for the hurricane season and identify other areas of concern in your home that need to be addressed.

Good luck to everyone out there this summer weathering the heat and storms. Stay cool, save money, and protect your home!