Stay Cool All Summer Long
Summertime is usually lots of fun! It’s a time to enjoy the weather and make memories with family and friends, but as the sun shines more and temperatures rise, so do energy expenses. THAW checked in with friends at DTE for seven easy ways to beat the heat while saving money:
1.Install a programmable thermostat. Programmable thermostats offer several benefits including cost savings, convenience, and comfort. Program your thermostat according to your family’s summer schedule, so you don’t have to worry about manually adjusting it throughout the day. Some smart thermostats even allow you to control temperatures from your phone.
2. Seal air leaks and insulate. Avoid hot air getting into your home and keep the cool air in by sealing air leaks. You can seal air leaks with inexpensive weather-stripping on doors and caulking around windows.
3. Tune-up your air-conditioner. Contact an HVAC professional to get your air conditioner cleaned. An efficiently running AC will save you money and reduce your energy use.
4. Switch to LED lights. LEDs produce light up to 90% more efficiently than traditional, incandescent light bulbs? LED light bulbs conduct less heat which saves energy and can even help save on cooling costs. Installing outdoor LEDs with sensors can also help you save this summer by turning on lights only once it’s dark outside.
5. Change your filter. A dirty HVAC filter can lead to an inefficiently running system and inject dirty air throughout your home. Change your filters at the start of the summer and at least every three months to keep your system optimally running.
6. Give your oven a break. Using your oven during the summer generates heat that can cause your AC to work overtime. Try grilling outside instead.
7. Use ceiling fans. Run your ceiling fan to create a cool breeze. If
you raise your thermostat by only two degrees and use your ceiling fan, you can lower your air conditioning costs by up to 14%.
Energy usage happens every day and everywhere — in our homes, work, and the world around us. Wasted energy can result in big bills and waste. Wasted energy can result in big bills — consider these tips to lower them.
For more information on energy efficiency and savings, visit dteenergy.com or watch THAW’s Energy Efficiency Education video at thawfund.org.
