Summer in Fenton and St. Louis means backyard BBQs, cheering on the Cardinals, and long sunny days — but it also brings high temperatures and even higher energy bills. That’s why we’ve created this expert-backed guide packed with Energy Efficiency Tips tailored specifically for Fenton and St. Louis homeowners.
At ABF Security, we believe you should be able to enjoy everything summer has to offer without sacrificing comfort or overspending on utilities. Our Residential Energy Management service is here to help you keep your home cool, efficient, and secure all season long.
In this guide, you’ll find:
- Why Smart Thermostats Are a Smart Upgrade
- Simple But Powerful Home Energy Tips
- Benefits Beyond Savings
- Staying Connected and Informed
- Scheduling an Energy Assessment
As your trusted local partner, ABF Security has crafted these strategies to help you transform your home into a smarter, more energy-efficient space. Our goal is to give you the confidence to invest in professional solutions that keep you comfortable, reduce your bills, and make your home stand out — all summer long.
Why Smart Thermostats Are a Smart Upgrade
Smart thermostats are more than just fancy gadgets — they’re like having an energy-saving assistant in your home. These devices connect to your Wi-Fi and can be controlled remotely through your smartphone. But it doesn’t stop there. They learn your routines, detect when you’re home or away, and adjust temperatures automatically.
Imagine your thermostat knowing when you leave for work and automatically setting your AC to a more energy-efficient mode. Before you return, it starts cooling things down so you walk into a comfortable house. No more paying to cool an empty home! According to Parks Associates, smart thermostats continue to grow in popularity because they can cut energy consumption significantly — putting money right back into your pocket.
Plus, many smart thermostats integrate seamlessly with your security system. When you arm your system and leave, your thermostat can automatically switch to an eco-friendly setting. It’s a win-win for your comfort and your budget, all backed by ABF Security’s trusted expertise.
Simple But Powerful Home Energy Tips
Below, we’ve gathered some of our top practical tips to help you keep your home cooler and more efficient this summer — all while boosting comfort and showcasing your commitment to smart living.
Block Out the Heat with Smart Shading
Blocking the sun’s heat before it enters your home is one of the most effective ways to stay cool. Installing blackout curtains or thermal shades on south- and west-facing windows can drastically reduce heat gain. Automated blinds can take this a step further by adjusting themselves based on the sun’s position and time of day. Imagine your blinds closing automatically at noon when the sun is strongest — no manual effort needed! Not only does this keep your rooms cooler, but it also protects your furniture and floors from UV damage. Consider combining smart shading with window films or reflective exterior shades for even more savings.
Sealing Leaks & Improving Insulation
Did you know that nearly 30% of your cooling energy can slip away through tiny cracks and poorly sealed areas? Start by checking around windows, doors, and any spots where pipes enter your home. Use weatherstripping or caulking to seal these leaks. Inspecting attic insulation can provide even greater savings. An under-insulated attic lets hot air seep in and pushes cool air out, making your HVAC work harder. Upgrading insulation helps maintain comfort year-round and reduces strain on your systems. Proper sealing and insulation also improve humidity control and indoor air quality by preventing allergens and pollutants from entering. You’ll enjoy a quieter, healthier living environment while lowering energy bills and boosting your home’s value.
Upgrading to Energy-Efficient Lighting
Switching to LED Lighting is one of the smartest, simplest ways to cut down on heat and energy use at the same time. Traditional incandescent bulbs waste 90% of their energy as heat, making your rooms warmer and your bills higher. LEDs consume less energy, produce minimal heat, and last much longer, reducing replacement costs and your environmental impact. Today’s LED options come in a wide range of colors, brightness levels, and smart features, allowing you to create customized moods for every space. Adding dimmers and smart lighting controls helps fine-tune brightness and automate usage, delivering even greater savings and comfort. Upgrading your lighting not only improves efficiency but also enhances your home’s ambiance, increases convenience, and highlights your commitment to a modern, eco-friendly lifestyle. Brightening up your spaces has never been smarter—or more stylish.
Embracing Ceiling Fans
Ceiling fans are a total game changer for creating that breezy, refreshing feeling without cranking up the AC. By circulating air, they can make it feel up to 4 degrees cooler, so you can raise the thermostat and still stay comfortable. In summer, make sure your fans spin counterclockwise to push cool air downward and create the perfect wind-chill effect. Want to take it up a notch? Connect your ceiling fans to smart controls so you can schedule them, turn them on or off remotely, and even sync them with your smart home system. Imagine your fans automatically turning on as soon as you arrive home or adjusting themselves to match the temperature — total comfort and convenience! Just remember: fans cool people, not rooms, so turn them off when you head out.
Benefits Beyond Savings
Lower energy bills are just the beginning. Energy-efficient upgrades can also improve air quality by reducing overworked HVAC systems and preventing mold or moisture buildup. Increased comfort and temperature stability enhance your daily life and make your home more enjoyable year-round. Plus, these improvements can raise your property value and make your home more attractive to future buyers. Finally, using less energy is good for the environment, helping reduce your carbon footprint and contributing to a greener community that we can all be proud of. Beyond that, investing in smart energy solutions can help you stay ahead of rising utility rates, give you greater control over your household expenses, and demonstrate your commitment to sustainable living. These benefits extend beyond financial savings — they reflect a lifestyle of comfort, responsibility, and long-term peace of mind.
Staying Connected and Informed
With modern smart home technology, you don’t have to wonder if you left the AC on. Use your smartphone to monitor and adjust your thermostat, fans, and lighting while you’re at work, at a Cardinals game, or on vacation. Receive alerts if temperatures spike unexpectedly or if a system needs attention, helping you avoid costly surprises. Staying connected empowers you to make energy-conscious decisions on the go, keeping your home comfortable, secure, and efficient — no matter where summer takes you. As local experts in smart home integration, ABF Security is here to help you make the most of every feature and stay informed at every step.
Scheduling an Energy Assessment
Sometimes the best way to uncover hidden savings is through a professional energy assessment. Our ABF Security experts evaluate your home’s energy usage, identify inefficiencies, and suggest targeted improvements. From advanced smart thermostats to customized smart lighting plans, we tailor recommendations to your specific needs. You’ll receive a clear roadmap for improvements, plus actionable advice on maximizing rebates and incentives that may be available in the St. Louis and Fenton areas. It’s a personalized step toward lower bills and greater comfort. Our team makes the process easy and stress-free, so you can focus on enjoying a cooler, more efficient home without the guesswork or hassle.
Don’t let summer heat drain your wallet. With smart upgrades and a few simple changes, you can enjoy a cool, comfortable home without high bills. ABF Security is here to make it easy. From consultation to installation, we guide you every step of the way. Contact us today for a personalized consultation and start experiencing lower bills, greater comfort, and a smarter, more secure home this summer.