Tips to Help Manage Summer Energy Costs

While summer is a great time to enjoy warm weather activities, it is not so pleasing to feel the heat of higher energy bills that are often associated with higher energy use. Summer will surely bring hot, humid weather, but with a little effort, you can be comfortable and help stretch your energy dollars too.

• Have your air conditioning system checked by a licensed technician to ensure it is in good working condition.
• If health permits, set your air conditioner’s thermostat between 75-78 degrees. Every degree you move your thermostat up can save as much as five percent on your cooling bill.
• Change or clean your air conditioner filter. A dirty filter causes the unit to run longer and inefficiently.
• Close window shades, blinds, or drapes to keep out the sun and retain cooler air inside.
• Move lamps, TVs, and other heat producing items away from your air conditioner’s thermostat. Turn off electric appliances and equipment when not is use.
• Check that all windows and doors are tightly closed to keep the cool air in and the hot air out. Weather stripping also can help seal air leaks around doors and windows.
• Cook and use other heat-generating appliances such as washers, dryers and dish washers in the early morning or cooler evening hours.
• Wash clothes in cold water.
• Use dishwashers only when fully loaded. Use the air-dry option if your unit has one.
• Consider preparing light summer meals that do not require a lot of cooking. If possible, use an outdoor grill or microwave for cooking.

• Consider using a ceiling fan with your window air conditioner to spread cooled air to other rooms. Be sure the air conditioner is large enough to help cool the additional space.
• Install a whole-house ventilating fan in your attic or in an upstairs window to help circulate air. Although not a replacement for a central air conditioning system, a fan is an effective way to stay comfortable on milder days.

Electrical Safety Is A Year-Round Effort

■ Have your home wiring inspected by a qualified electrician if you notice problems such as flickering lights, or
buzzing from outlets – especially if you have an older home.

■ Use the right power strips, cords and surge protectors for the intended electrical load.

■ Avoid overloading circuits with too many appliances plugged into a single outlet or power strip.
■ Replace frayed cords and damaged electrical equipment.

■ Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for using appliances and equipment.

■ Use extension cords only temporarily. Consider installing additional outlets if necessary.

■ Remember that water and electricity don’t mix.

POWER ENERGY SAVINGS TIP

When you need a new water heater buy a high-efficiency water heater; purchase a unit with a high Energy Factor (EF) rating. EF ratings—such as those of .91 and above—correspond with greater efficiency. The higher the rating, the more efficiently the unit will operate

Sources: Delmarva Power: Energy Savings Tips http://www.delmarva.com/
Images courtesy of http://www.googleimages.com/ and www.greenworld365.com/

Submitted by: Barbara Williams, Administrative Coordinator, Department for Economic Advancement, YWCA Delaware.