SAVE ON SUMMER COSTS!
In the typical Boston area home, an air conditioner uses more electricity than any other appliance. During extreme heat waves air conditioning can account for as much as 60-70% of your electric bill.
Of course, the most obvious way to lower your cooling bill is to run the air conditioner less often and turn the temperature up a couple of degrees. But there are several other little things that can make a difference!
Of course, the most obvious way to lower your cooling bill is to run the air conditioner less often and turn the temperature up a couple of degrees. But there are several other little things that can make a difference!
- Clean your air conditioner coils. Dirty cooling coils will make your air conditioner work harder, reducing efficiency.
- Use ceiling fans. A ceiling fan will allow you to raise the thermostat setting about 4 degrees F with no reduction in comfort. Remember to turn off ceiling fans when not one is in the room.
- Although thermostats can be adjusted manually, programmable thermostats will avoid any discomfort by returning temperatures to normal before you wake or return home.
- On hot days, avoid using your oven. Use a microwave oven, or grill outside!
- Make sure bathroom and kitchen fans are vented to the outside (not just to the attic).
