Use your windows
- On cooler nights, turn off your cooling system and open your windows while sleeping. When you wake in the morning, shut the windows and blinds to capture the cool air.
- Install window treatments, such as awnings, shades, blinds or drapes, to prevent heat gain through your windows.
Operate your thermostat efficiently
- Set your thermostat as high as comfortably possible in the summer. 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 to 78°F only when you are at home and need cooling.
- Avoid setting your thermostat at a colder setting than normal when you turn on your air conditioner. It will not cool your home any faster and could result in excessive cooling and unnecessary expense.
- Schedule 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.
Use fans and ventilation to cool your home
- If you use air conditioning, a ceiling fan will allow you to raise the thermostat setting about 4°F with no reduction in comfort.
- 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 the heat and humidity from your home. Your laundry room might also benefit from spot ventilation. Make sure your bathroom and kitchen fans are vented to the outside (not just to the attic).
Keep hot air from leaking into your home
- Seal cracks and openings to prevent warm air from leaking inside. Add caulk or weather stripping around leaky doors and windows.
Summer Safety Tips
- All outdoor receptacles should be covered to keep them dry. This is especially important around pools, spas and other water activities.
- Use a ground fault circuit interrupter (GFCI) for electrical devices used outside to help prevent electrocutions and electric shock injuries.
- Make sure all electrical equipment used for swimming pools is grounded.
- Electrical devices and cords should be kept at least 10 feet away from water sources such as pools and spas.
- Never handle electrical devices when you are wet – either from water activities or from perspiration.