The dog days of summer have come early this year, and as the air-conditioner runs on overdrive, people are already getting nervous about opening the next electric bill.
"I think it's definitely going to be a rude awakening for a lot of people, so I think that the power company should definitely give people a lot more tips or a lot more options to help people conserve energy," said Angela English.
7 On Your Side has you covered.
Closing the blinds, caulking your baseboards, and shutting your fireplace damper are a few well known tips to seal your house.
But did you know for every degree you raise your thermostat in the summer you save 1 to 2% on your bill?
That's what Jim Donahoo with Laurens Electric Cooperative told us as we scoured for ways to cut costs.
"You can save anywhere from 2 to 3 percent just by keeping your thermostat set at 78 versus 76," said Donahoo.
And of course setting it higher when your at work saves a good chunk of change as well.
Another big money saver, +.. Your filters. When's the last time you checked them? Laurens Electric recommends you change them once every month and change them at least once every 3 months."
What about rooms you don't use much? We asked Donahoo if it's better to shut the vents and close them off. He said absolutely not.
"The heat from that room can go under the door and creep out of there and actually act as heating other areas of your home," said Donahoo.
Donahoo also recommends scoping out your attic for the right insulation. He says you can save 15 to 20% on your bill by installing insulation with a rating value of R-30. And don't forget the attic door. Also look for any leaks in your ducts and seal them with duct tape.
...Easy tips to make reading your next electric bill a little easier to swallow.
For more cost cutting tips head to www.togetherwesave.com
Email
Facebook
Google
Twitter
Favorites
More
Advertisement