Summer weather is here and now is a good time to find simple ways to keep your home cool. These tips can help you use less energy and lower costs.
- Schedule an AC tuneup. Book a checkup for your air conditioner to help it run efficiently. A well-maintained system can cool your home more effectively and use less energy on hot days.
- Install a smart or programmable thermostat. These thermostats can automatically adjust the temperature when you’re away or sleeping, helping you save on cooling costs. Set the AC to 78 degrees when you’re home and raise the temperature by 8 degrees when you’re away and by 4 degrees at night. These adjustments can help you save up to $180 annually.
- Shift chores to cooler hours. Use heat-producing appliances like ovens and washers in the evening when temperatures are lower. Turn off lights when they’re not needed. Close the drapes during the day and consider thermal curtains to reduce energy losses by up to 25%.
- Seal leaks. Keep hot air out and cool air in by adding caulk or weatherstripping around doors and windows.
- Take advantage of rebates and programs. We partner with Focus on Energy to offer energy efficiency rebates and programs to help reduce energy use and costs. Free energy-saving packs and online home energy assessments are available, as well as rebates and deals on thermostats, water-saving products and more.
- Enroll in Budget Billing. Budget Billing lets customers know exactly what their bill will be each month. It can help reduce the impact of seasonal weather changes that affect your bill.