Staying Cool & Save Money On Your Summer Energy Bills

Sunshine and warm weather are great when you are outdoors, but they can also lead to costly energy bills indoors during the summer months.

We have some tips for savings on your summer energy bills.

1. Air Conditioning
   1. Avoid setting your thermostat colder than normal when you turn the air conditioner on. This will not cool your home faster and it could lead to unneeded cooling and expense.
   2. Replace the air filters and clean the registers on a regular basis. Also avoid blocking the registers.
   3. When you are not home, set the thermostat at a higher setting.
   4. Keep lamps and warm appliances away from the thermostat.
2. Fans and Ventilation
   1. Set your ceiling fans to run counter-clockwise in the summer, which will create a cooler, “wind chill” effect.
   2. Turn ceiling fans off when you leave the room, fans cool people not, rooms.
   3. Adjust the thermostat when using ceiling fans for additional energy savings on air conditioning.
   4. Use a bathroom fan to remove heat and humidity when showering.
3. Window Treatments
   1. Highly reflective slat blinds can reduce heat gain around 45% when closed and lowered on sunny windows.
   2. Closed drapes can help you stay cooler in the summer compared to other window treatments. The pleats and folds lose heat through convection.
   3. Medium-colored drapes with white-plastic backs can reduce heat gains by as much as 33%.
4. Other Helpful Steps
   1. Take shorter showers instead of taking a bath.
   2. Wash full loads of dishes and clothes. If possible air dry both.
   3. Avoid using the oven on those hot days. Opt for the stove, microwave or grill.
   4. Reduce your use of heat-producing items like computers, hair dryers and TVs.

By following some or all of these steps, you can save some money for other things that matter the most to you this summer. Don’t forget to give R.C. Keller & Company a call to insure your homes, autos, and summer toys at 847-907-4520.