Yesterday we were two degrees off of a record high temperature. It was 85 wonderfully warm degrees (not bad for May in the Upper Midwest). My daughter and I met up with a few of our playgroup pals at a local park. The kids chased each other over the bridges and under the slides—for three hours—while the moms melted in the sun (you can’t see the playground from the park pavilion so we couldn’t camp out in there). We took turns making sure the kids were well hydrated and kept asking them if they were ready to get ice cream. Much to our surprise they had no desire to leave. So we waited… and wilted.
It wasn’t long before our (the mom’s) conversation turned to summer and the season’s red hot temperatures. That, of course, segued to a discussion about air conditioners and ceiling fans… and the increase demand for electricity (mainly, we were wondering out loud how much we would all be paying to stay cool this summer).
It feels as though I just survived the anxiety that comes with paying the heating bills now I have to worry about how the nation’s energy supply could affect my electric bills this summer. That said I know if I make a concerted effort there are ways to stay cool, save energy and keep my electric bills under control in the hot summer months to come.
For example:
· Remember to turn off everything you’re not using; lights, TVs, computers, etc.
· Use dimmers and timers on indoor and outdoor lighting.
· Close drapes and blinds to keep the sun’s heat out and help fans and air conditioners cool more efficiently.
· Check the caulking around doors and windows. You can eliminate air leaks between window air conditioners and windows with weather-stripping.
· If you live in a large home and have central air, it’s a good idea to close off vents to unused rooms.
· Even if you have air conditioning, ceiling and other fans provide additional cooling.
· Try not to use nonessential appliances.
· According to energy experts, raising your thermostat from 73 to 78 degrees can save you as much as 15 percent in cooling costs during the summer.
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More Reasons You Should Install A Ceiling Fan In Your Home
How Ceiling Fans Can Help You Save Money