Keep the heat — and your power bills — in check with these tips

  • Highs in the 90s for the foreseeable future. Nightly temperatures above 75 until November. Here's tips to keep cool without heating up your power bill.
    Highs in the 90s for the foreseeable future. Nightly temperatures above 75 until November. Here's tips to keep cool without heating up your power bill.

    As temperatures are expected to be in the 90s all week with no relief in sight (until … November?), summer has definitely arrived.

    With escalating air conditioning use due to rising temperatures, many of us here in Osceola County could see higher energy bills this month – but the good news is, there are steps that can be taken to conserve, and as a result, work to lower your bill.

    Here are some tips to beat the summer heat and keep your power bill in check:

    • Set your thermostat to 78 degrees. That’s the efficiency sweet spot for your home’s air conditioner. For each degree below 78, you’ll add 6 to 8% more to your cooling costs.
    • Keep the sun out. Use shades, drapes and blinds to keep the sun and heat out, especially on windows that face east or west. If you must turn it down lower, do it at night before going to bed; a cooler house will take longer to heat up during the day.
    • Turn on ceiling fans. Make sure they’re rotating counterclockwise, but don’t forget to turn them off when the room is empty — fans don’t cool rooms, they cool people.
    • Give your A/C a helping hand. Change the air filter monthly, and set the A/C fan to “Auto.”
    • Consider upgrading to a smart thermostat. Smart thermostats can help save up to 10 percent on cooling costs.
    • Caulk and place weather strips around leaky windows and doors.
    • Turn off lights – and unplug appliances and electronics not in use. It’s estimated that the average home has 30-50 “energy vampires” – home appliances that drain power even when they’re turned off or in standby mode. Phone chargers, coffee makers and portable fans are among the culprits. Following this simple step can reduce your total energy usage by up to 10%.
    • Opt for cold water. Try using the cold – rather than hot – setting on your washing machine. Check your water heater temperature to ensure it is set to no more than 125 degrees, otherwise you’re wasting energy.
    • Be water-wise. Wash only full loads in dishwashers and washing machines, take five-minute showers and turn off the water while brushing your teeth or shaving to decrease your daily water usage. Don’t forget to regularly check for faucet leaks in the bathroom, kitchen, laundry room and outside the house.