Save Energy and Money This Summer

Did you know you can be energy efficient and save money when the temperature goes up this summer? It’s true! In this blog, we’ll go over a few simple steps which will help your home be more energy-efficient and save you money. Even when it is hot outside.

Decrease your hot water tank thermostat

The Consumer Product Safety Commission recommends setting your water heater at no more than 120 degrees Fahrenheit to prevent scalding. Not only is it safer, but the lower setting will also conserve energy and save money. Heating water accounts for about 18% of the total energy consumed in most homes in the United States.

Use energy-efficient lighting

According to Energy.gov, by replacing your home’s five most frequently used light fixtures with energy-efficient bulbs, you can save $75 each year. Compared to traditional incandescents, energy-efficient lightbulbs such as light emitting diodes (LEDs) typically use about 25%-80% less energy and can last up to 25 times longer, too. For more information, check out the top eight things you didn’t know about LEDs.

Comparison Chart Courtesy of Energy.gov

Be smart with your thermostat

Although you may be inclined to turn down your thermostat this summer, try to set it as high as comfortably possible, especially when you are not home.  A smart, or programmable thermostat, can efficiently keep your house warmer when you are away, and cooler when you are home, without you having to remember to adjust daily.  The smaller the difference between the indoor and outdoor temperatures, the lower your cooling costs will be.

A ceiling fan used in conjunction with air conditioning will allow you to turn up the thermostat about four degrees with no change in comfort level.  Fans create a wind chill effect, which cools people without using air conditioning to cool the room. Be sure to turn off the ceiling fan when you leave the room.   Use ventilation fans in the bathroom during showers or baths to remove heat and humidity, as well as laundry rooms and kitchens when in use.  For optimal efficiency, bathroom and kitchen fans should be vented to the outside and not up into the attic.

How can I make my home more energy-efficient?

AEP Energy Reward Store^SM is our one-stop online marketplace filled with a variety of energy-saving and connected-home products for your home. It is a simple and convenient way for you to shop for items to make your home more energy efficient while saving you time and money.

You can earn Reward Dollars to use in Reward Store by enrolling on an AEP Energy price plan. One month after your enrollment date, you will start earning Reward Dollars to use towards your purchases in Reward Store.

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