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With these simple steps, you can save money on electricity all summer long.
- Check your air filters monthly. Change them if needed. Keep in mind that cheaper air filters work just as well as more expensive ones.
- Set your thermostat at 78°F. For every degree above 78, you’ll save 3-5% on your cooling costs.
- Use a ceiling fan along with your AC. A fan can make you feel up to 4 degrees cooler and costs only pennies to operate. Just remember: Fans cool people, not rooms. Turn off the fan when you leave the room.
- Don’t let the cold air out or the hot air in. Use caulk and weatherstripping to seal air leaks around doors and windows. If you have a traditional fireplace, be sure to close the damper for the summer season.
- Clean around your outdoor HVAC unit. For optimal airflow, ensure there’s at least a two-foot clearance around the unit. Also, consider how large your plants will grow, when planting near the unit.
- Get your AC system checked by a professional annually. An improperly running unit can bump up your monthly bill.
For more ideas about ways to use less energy and reduce your electric bill, visit energy.gov/save.