It’s summertime, and the heat is on!
This time of year, it’s normal to want to turn the air conditioning down. We all want to be cool! However, no one wants a high electric bill.
To see how the summer heat affects your energy use—and your monthly energy bill, use TempTracker 365™. It records daily high and low temperatures in ElectriCities member communities. You can use it to find out which days, weeks, or months were extremely hot, causing your cooling system to run longer. You can also see which days had milder temperatures and didn’t result in as much energy use.
Whatever the temperature extremes are in your community, these simple, no-cost and low-cost tips from the U.S. Department of Energy can help you save money and keep cool this summer.
Use your windows to keep out heat
- Install window coverings to prevent heat from coming through your windows during the day.
Operate your thermostat efficiently
- Set your thermostat at a temperature that you find comfortable and that provides humidity control, if needed.
- When you’re away, set your thermostat a few degrees higher than normal. Lower the thermostat setting when you return home and need cooling.
- Avoid setting your thermostat at a colder setting than normal when you first turn on your air conditioner.
Use fans and ventilation strategies to cool your home
- Turn off ceiling fans when you leave the room. Remember that fans cool people, not rooms, by creating a windchill effect.
- When you shower or take a bath, use the bathroom fan to remove heat and humidity from your home.
Keep your cooling system running efficiently
- Schedule regular maintenance for your cooling equipment.
- Avoid placing lamps or TV sets near your thermostat. The thermostat senses heat from these appliances, which can cause the air conditioner to run longer than necessary.
- Vacuum your air intake vents regularly to remove any dust buildup. Ensure that furniture and other objects aren’t blocking the airflow through your registers.
- Change the filter for your HVAC system monthly.
Consider a range of appliances and lighting options
- Consider lighting options that operate at cooler temperatures.
- Learn more about your options for efficient lighting.
- Find out when to turn off your lights.
- If convenient, take advantage of daylight instead of artificial lighting, but avoid direct sunlight.
- Learn more about strategies for efficient daylighting.
- Wash full loads of dishes and clothes for better efficiency.
- Learn more about efficient dishwashing and laundry.
Keep hot air from leaking into your home
- Seal cracks and openings to prevent warm air from leaking into your home.
- Add caulk or weatherstripping to seal air leaks around doors and windows.
Lowe your water heating costs
Water heating accounts for about 18% of the energy consumed in your home.
- The Consumer Product Safety Commission recommends setting your water heater at no more than 120˚F to prevent scalding. The lower setting will also conserve energy and save money.
For more ways to save money and keep cool this summer, check out https://www.energy.gov/energysaver/spring-and-summer-energy-saving-tips.