Extreme summer heat draining you of energy – and money?

Well, here are some tips from the Department of Energy to help you save cash during the hot days of summer:

• User window coverings like black-out drapes to prevent heat gain through your windows during the day. Find out about window treatments and coverings that can improve energy efficiency.
• Keep drapes closed and shades drawn.
• Clothes dryers and dishwashers produce a lot of heat. Use them early in the morning or late in the evening.
• Use only lights and appliances you really need.
• Set your thermostat at a temperature you find comfortable and that provides humidity control, if needed. The smaller the difference between the indoor and outdoor temperatures, the lower your overall cooling bill will be.
• Keep your house warmer than normal when you are away, and lower the thermostat setting when you return home and need cooling.
• Avoid setting your thermostat at a colder setting than normal when you first turn on your air conditioner. It will not cool your home any faster and could result in excessive cooling and unnecessary expense.
• Turn off ceiling fans when you leave the room. Remember that fans cool people, not rooms, by creating a wind chill effect.
• When you shower or take a bath, use the bathroom fan to remove heat and humidity from your home. Your laundry room might also benefit from spot ventilation. Make sure bathroom and kitchen fans are vented to the outside and not just to the attic.regular maintenance for your cooling equipment.
• Avoid placing lamps or TV sets near your room air-conditioning thermostat. The thermostat senses heat from these appliances, which can cause the air conditioner to run longer than necessary.
• Vacuum your air intake vents regularly to remove any dust buildup. Ensure that furniture and other objects are not blocking the airflow through your registers.
• Seal cracks and openings to prevent warm air from leaking into your home. Add caulk or weatherstripping to seal air leaks around doors and windows.
• To reduce energy use, avoid using your oven. Take it outside and use a grill. Not only will it eliminate the electricity used to power the stove, but it will also avoid raising the temperature inside your home, reducing the need for air conditioning or cooling.
• Even appliances that are turned off still use small amounts of electricity, known as “phantom loads.” Along with turning off the lights, unplug lamps, TVs, appliances, and anything else you are not actively using. While the impact of these small individual actions may seem insignificant, every little bit helps to add up to greater electricity and cost savings.

 (AL.COM/www.al.com)