KIRKSVILLE, MO. -- The official start of summer is just two weeks away but the heat is already here. Fact Finder has some tips to help you beat the heat and save energy during these hot months.
The recommended energy efficient summer temperature for your thermostat is 78 degrees. Setting your thermostat at a lower temperature will not cool your home quicker.
"Think of your thermostat as more like a light switch that operates off of temperature. It's either on or off. The air conditioner runs at a constant speed so turning it down lower doesn't mean that you're going to get cooler faster. It's not like the accelerator in your car," said Peters Heating & Air Conditioning Inc Manager Tim Peters.
Use fans more and your air conditioner less. Position the fan to blow hot air out of the house during the day and pull cooler air into the house after dark. Fans won’t lower the temperature but they will make you feel more comfortable.
Check your filter at the beginning of the cooling season. A tip is to remove the filter and try looking through it using a bright light. If you can’t see the light, clean or replace the filter.
Keep the heat out by drawing shades and curtains on hot, sunny days.
Always look for the Energy Star label on air conditioners or window units. This will maximize efficiency and save you some money.
For information on rebates for select window units and dehumidifiers, click here. You can also go to Energy Star's website for information on rebates.
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