Take Control of Summer Energy Bills

Posted: July 8, 2021 at 8:41 am

Everyone expects Florida summers to make their air conditioner run overtime. But, do you sometimes wonder if you are doing everything possible to keep your home comfortable while keeping power costs down?

Each of us has the power to help control our energy costs. I encourage you to make thoughtful choices to make energy savings pay off.

Look to the west of your home. Do you have trees, a porch overhang, or awnings shading windows exposed to the afternoon sun?  If not, radiant heat may be driving up indoor temperatures and adding to your overall cooling costs.

Window coverings can help. Blinds or shades can deflect the sun, and draperies lined with a thermal radiant barrier can block up to 95% of sunlight and 100% of ultraviolet rays.

Are you taking advantage of airflow? A ceiling fan can pull warm air up above your living zone and make a difference during the summer. Plus, air blowing across our skin makes us feel more comfortable. However, make sure you turn fans off in unoccupied rooms to save energy.

Airflow is important when it comes to HVAC filters too. Dirty filters restrict air circulation, causing your cooling system to work harder. Follow the manufacturer’s recommendations on replacing disposable filters or cleaning permanent ones. If you’ve got pets, check the filter more often.

Consider these energy facts:

• One open window can pull as much conditioned air outside as an uncapped chimney.
• Lighting and ventilation fans add convenience and provide benefits when needed but waste energy when left on and unattended.
• A bag of ice poured into a cooler will chill summer beverages as effectively and less expensively than keeping an aging refrigerator in a hot garage.

Visit www.preco.coop/energy/saving for more energy-saving tips and ideas that can help you control energy costs and reduce summer energy use.

Consider talking to a PRECO energy advisor at 800-282-3824. We can help you identify and correct problems that may be contributing to higher bills and increased energy use in your home.