LANSING, MI — With mid-Michigan getting its first taste of summer heat this week, local energy companies like Consumers Energy and the Lansing Board of Water and Light are offering tips to help customers stay cool without blowing up their energy .
Consumers Energy is suggesting you do the following this week:
Start with your thermostat … Perhaps the easiest way to reduce your energy use is to adjust your thermostat. For every degree you change your thermostat, you can save 1 to 3 percent over time. Don’t be uncomfortable, but understand that a small change can make a big difference.
Speaking of thermostats … Consumer is giving them away. Consumers Energy is offering Google Nest thermostats at no cost to eligible households. Smart thermostats can save you up to 15% on your bill. Customers whose homes receive electricity from Consumers Energy and have central air are eligible.
Turn off the lights … Don’t waste energy. Turn off the lights when you leave rooms, and turn off appliances when they’re not being used.
Shift your energy use … Save money by using energy in the mornings or at night. Or if you have an electric vehicle, charge it overnight. Those are the times when energy is the most affordable.
Be a big fan of fans … Use your air conditioner, of course, but fans are also effective ways to keep cool on hot days. Remember, fans cool people, not rooms.
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