- Keep the thermostat at 78°F when home and warmer than usual when away.
- Open windows at night and circulate in cool air, but close them first thing in the mornings.
- Keep blinds closed and facing upward during the day as up to 30% of unwanted heat is from windows.
- Use fans for circulation when in a room and turn off when leaving a room. Remember, fans cool people, not rooms, with a wind chill effect.
- Set ceiling fans to rotate counter-clockwise. Ceiling fans will allow you to raise the thermostat about 4°F with no reduction in comfort.
- Use bathroom and kitchen hood fans to remove heat and humidity from the home.
- Do not heat your home with appliances. Avoid using oven on hot days; cook on the stove, microwave or better yet grill outside.
- Avoid placing lamps, TVs and other appliances near the thermostat, it can sense heat output.
- Take advantage of daylight instead of artificial that can put off some heat, but avoid direct sunlight.
- Consider air drying both clothes and dishes.
- Turn down temperature of your water heater to the warm setting (120°F).
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Tips to Stay Cool & Conserve Energy at Home
