When temperatures go up, so can the electric bill. Here are a few ways you can stay cool while conserving energy in extreme summer weather:

• Air conditioners can use a lot of electricity during extreme temperatures. By using ceiling fans along with the A/C, you can raise the thermostat by a degree or two and still stay safe and cool. Keep in mind that ceiling fans cool people, not rooms, by creating a wind-chill effect. If the room is unoccupied, turn off the ceiling fan to save energy.
  
• Appliances such as washers, dryers, and dishwashers can also heat up your home, causing the A/C to work harder. Consider running these appliances after 8 p.m. or early in the morning to help keep the house cooler.
  
• Close the blinds or curtains – especially on the sunny side of your house – to block some of the heat during the hottest part of the day.
  
• Consider using the microwave, air fryer, or toaster oven, or use an outside grill to cook meals and avoid heating up your home. Cooking with the oven and stove can produce both heat and humidity, which makes the A/C work harder to keep the house cool.

Even small conservation efforts like these can have a big impact!

To schedule a FREE Home Energy Evaluation by DREMC’s Residential Energy Advisor, email Pat Garrett or call 931-680-5886.

For more tips on how to increase energy efficiency, visit energyright.com.