Summer is almost here. It is important for you to know that a home’s air conditioner, appliances and electronics are some of the biggest users of energy—and saving energy is one of the easiest ways to manage your power bill. Follow these tips to make your home energy efficient as temperatures rise:
- Set your thermostat at 78 degrees or whatever temperature is safe and comfortable for you and your family. Installing a programmable thermostat and adjusting your setpoints to a more efficient setting when no one is home and while you are sleeping can also help.
- Now is a great time to have your air conditioning checked to make sure equipment and filters are running as efficiently as possible.
- Consider using heat-generating appliances such as ovens, dishwashers, washers and dryers later in the evening or early in the morning when it’s cooler outside.
- Keep your shades or blinds closed, especially on the sunny side of your home to keep everything cool inside. Studies have shown that medium-colored draperies with white-plastic backings can reduce heat gains by 33%.
- Ensure your ceiling fan rotates counterclockwise in the summer. This will help create a cool breeze by pushing air down.
Other tips to consider:
- You can save up to 25% on the costs to cool your home by using caulk and weather strips to seal openings to the outside.
- Schedule an annual inspection of your heating and cooling system. This can help identify hidden sources of energy loss like loose or broken ductwork which accounts for 15-35% of a home’s energy loss.
Watch this video to hear from one of our business services account managers talk about some easy energy-saving tips.
Customers can find additional tips at AEPOhio.com/Savings and can find personalized recommendations through their energy dashboard at AEPOhio.com. If you or someone you know is experiencing financial hardship, visit AEPOhio.com/Assistance or call 1-800-672-2231 to learn more about payment assistance options. We are here to help, from payment assistance programs to community resources, we can help find the best solution for you.
