“Summer provides another opportunity to cut electric bills by eliminating energy waste,” said Valerie Brader, MAE’s executive director. “The Be SummerWise website has many useful low- and no-cost tips to help customers do just that.”
Be SummerWise features information on using energy wisely; utility-sponsored energy efficiency programs; planning ahead by using budget payment plans offered by utilities; available energy assistance and weatherization programs; and preparing for and surviving power outages.
The U.S. Department of Energy provides the following tips to cut energy usage:
- Use a fan. Ceiling fans will allow you to raise the thermostat setting about 4 degrees without impacting your comfort.
- Install and set a programmable thermostat — it could help you save up to 10 percent on heating and cooling costs a year.
- Insulate your attic and walls, and seal cracks and openings to prevent warm air from leaking into your home.
- Insulate and seal ducts — air loss through ducts accounts for about 30 percent of a cooling system’s energy consumption.
- On hot days, consider using an outdoor grill instead of your oven.
- Buy an ENERGY STAR-qualified air conditioning unit — on average, they’re up to 15 percent more efficient than standard models.
- Use the bathroom fan when taking a shower or bath and a range hood when cooking — this helps remove heat and humidity from your home.
For more information about MAE, please visit www.michigan.gov/energy