Lockhart Power understands that the hot South Carolina summers can increase your energy bill. Air conditioning is great, but it can get expensive if you don’t use it effectively. Here are some tips to help you save energy and reduce your power bill while you keep cool:

• Use ceiling fans: Install and use ceiling fans to create a cool breeze. They can make you feel up to 4 degrees cooler, allowing you to raise the thermostat temperature and reduce the workload on your air conditioner.
• Keep windows covered: Use blinds, curtains, or shades to block direct sunlight during the hottest parts of the day. This prevents heat from entering your home and keeps it cooler.
• Set the thermostat wisely: Set your thermostat to the highest comfortable temperature. Every degree you raise the thermostat can save you a significant amount of energy. Use a programmable thermostat to automatically adjust the temperature based on your schedule.
• Optimize natural ventilation: During cooler evenings and nights, open windows strategically to take advantage of natural breezes. Positioning windows and doors to create cross-ventilation can help cool your home without relying solely on air conditioning.
• Maintain your air conditioning system: Regularly clean or replace air filters to ensure proper airflow and efficiency. Schedule professional maintenance for your AC system to optimize its performance and identify potential issues.
• Use energy-efficient cooling equipment: If you’re in the market for a new air conditioner, consider energy-efficient models. Look for the ENERGY STAR label, which indicates that the unit meets or exceeds energy efficiency guidelines.
• Reduce heat-generating activities: Avoid using heat-producing appliances during the hottest parts of the day. For example, use the dishwasher, washing machine, and dryer in the evening when it’s cooler.
• Seal air leaks: Inspect your home for air leaks around windows, doors, and other openings. Seal them properly to prevent cool air from escaping and warm air from entering your home.
• Use fans strategically: Place portable fans near windows to draw in cooler air during the evenings. You also can use fans to enhance the effectiveness of air conditioning by circulating the cooled air more efficiently.
• Use natural cooling methods: Consider natural techniques such as shading with trees or awnings, planting greenery around your home to create a cooler microclimate, or using evaporative cooling methods like damp towels or a bowl of ice in front of a fan.

By incorporating these simple tricks into your daily routine, you can save energy and reduce your cooling costs while keeping your home comfortably cool.