LINCOLN — High temperatures can lead to higher energy usage and bills as people try to stay cool. Below are some low-cost and no-cost tips to save energy and money while staying cool during the hot summer weather.
- Set your thermostat to the highest comfortable setting. The smaller the difference between the inside and outside temperatures, the lower your energy usage and bill will be.
- Close blinds, drapes and curtains during the hottest part of the day. Keeping your blinds, drapes and curtains closed will help prevent the sun's rays from heating your home.
- Pre-cool your home during off-peak hours with a smart thermostat. Check out LES' demand incentive program at LES.com/PeakRewards.
- Install weather stripping to prevent warm air from entering and cool air from escaping.
- Caulk around windows and doors. Applying a bead of caulk around windows and doors is a simple way to keep cool air inside.
- Change your AC filter to help your AC unit run more efficiently, putting less strain on it.
- Cook with small appliances. Ovens release heat that makes it harder to keep your home cool. When it's hot, try cooking with appliances that use less energy, like your microwave or air fryer.
- Turn ceiling fans counterclockwise to push cool air down. Just remember to turn them off when you leave the room. Fans cool people, not rooms.
Discover more ways to save on LES' social media channels and at LES.com/HomeTips.