HOLLAND (WTHC-AM/FM) — Consumers Energy has a series of suggestions for reducing summer energy use:
- For central air conditioning: Clean leaves and debris from the unit and away from the compressor because they can block airflow. Clean the filter regularly. Dusty filters make your air conditioner work harder.
- Set your thermostat at 78 degrees while at home — higher when you’re away. Install an automatic setback or programmable thermostat that starts your air conditioner shortly before you get home. Consumers Energy offers rebates of up to $100 on Wi-Fi enabled thermostats.
- Close drapes, shades and blinds during the day to prevent the sun from heating your home unnecessarily. Open windows and doors in early morning and in the evening to let cooler air in.
- Seal and insulate your home. Reducing air leakage can be just as important to keep cool in the summer as to stay warm in the winter. Information about rebates for air sealing, insulation and windows is available at www.ConsumersEnergy.com/myhome or by calling 866-234-0445.
- Operate large appliances (stove, oven, dishwasher and clothes dryer_ in the morning or evening when it’s cooler outside. They add extra heat to your home, making your air conditioner work harder.
- Use fans. A ceiling fan cools fast and costs less than air conditioning. You can also reduce the need for air conditioning by installing an attic fan.
- Replace or tune up your old air conditioning equipment and receive rebates ranging from $50 to $500. Go to www.ConsumersEnergy.com/myhome or call 866-234-0445 to choose a participating contractor, who will install equipment, perform tune-ups and submit the rebate application for you.
