Don’t sweat the heat 

Summer heat can strain both your comfort and your budget. As temperatures soar and energy demand peaks in the late afternoon and evening, it’s time to take steps to lower your energy consumption and stay cool without breaking the bank.  

Boost your home’s energy efficiency

Start with an energy audit. We can’t fix what we don’t know about. Request a home energy audit from your local utility provider or a home energy auditor to identify where energy is being lost. Then, take action to reduce usage this summer. 
 

Tips to keep cool air in and hot air out 

• Seal air leaks around pipes, doors, windows, cracks and openings with caulk or weather stripping. 
• Schedule an HVAC system inspection with a professional to maintain performance. Check with your utility for rebates on energy-efficient replacements.  
• Change your air filter regularly. A clogged air filter makes your HVAC system work harder. 
• Switch to LED bulbs for increased efficiency.   
• Install a smart or programmable thermostat for automatic temperature control. Check with your local
• Utility for incentives and deals.
   

Reduce energy costs with smart appliance use  

• Run dryers, washers, and dishwashers early in the morning or late in the evening. 
• Wash full loads of laundry in cold water. It’s the detergent, not hot water, that cleans the clothes. 
• Clean the dryer’s lint trap after every laundry load, and air-dry clothes when possible. 
• Reduce heat-generating activities at home, like cooking during the hottest parts of the day or using heat-producing appliances. 
• Use a microwave oven or countertop appliance instead of a conventional range or oven. Better yet, grill outside! 

Easy actions for big energy savings

• Change ceiling fans to rotate counterclockwise to cool rooms and turn them off when you leave the room. Ceiling fans don’t actually cool the air; they create a windchill effect on your skin by circulating air around you. 
• Stay on the lowest floor of your home for naturally cooler air. 
• Close blinds and shades on sunny days to block excess heat. 
• Increase your thermostat by two degrees or more and set it to higher temperatures when you’re away.  
• Turn off and disconnect electronics that are not in use. 
• Prepare no-heat meals like salads, wraps and dips.  

Making small changes to reduce energy use can make a big impact. You’ll keep cool, save money on your utility bill and help reduce energy demand.