Ready to cut down on energy use, save some money AND still stay cool?
For many, air conditioning is our best friend during July, August, and even September here in Michigan, where we often keep it running all hours. Unfortunately, this relationship greatly affects our energy bills. Following are some tips on how to keep costs down during these particularly hot months:
Air Conditioner Upkeep: Make sure to clean your condenser to get rid of dirt, dust and pollen buildup. Additionally, change your filter every few months and have the unit checked annually. Following these maintenance tips will help your A/C run at peak performance.
Reset Light Timers: Michigan summers mean long days and lots of daylight hours. Set your timers so that they don’t come on too early, or stay on too late.
LED Light Bulbs for the win - all year long: LED lights bulbs use 75 percent less energy, last 25 times longer and run cooler than traditional incandescent bulbs - making them the most energy-efficient bulbs available. Amazingly, incandescent bulbs only use 10-15 percent of their energy for actual light, and the rest is wasted heat!
Rethink your Thermostat: Your thermostat should always be set as high as you and your pets can comfortably tolerate. When not at home, set it even higher. Smart thermostats that use WiFi make these transitions even easier and will adjust for peak energy efficiency.
Go Easy on the Oven: Here’s a great excuse not to cook. Oven cooking adds unwanted heat to your home. Instead choose the microwave, crockpot, outdoor grill or, better yet, go out or order in!
Stay cool, Michiganders!