Summer is here, and there is no doubt that Alabama has some of the hottest temperatures in the country! You may be trying to find ways of cooling down, but lowering your thermostat will raise your energy bill. So what are we to do?

There are ways to beat the heat without sizzling a hole in your wallet:

• Flip on the ceiling fan- Coupled alongside with an air conditioner or even solely used alone, a ceiling fan can significantly cool a room by four degrees.
• Turn A/C up a few degrees before leaving or sleeping- There is no reason to blast cold air into a house where no one is home. The thermostat should be set to no lower than 78 degrees. And you will save 4-8% every degree that is raised.
• Program your thermostat- Save time and money by installing a programmable thermostat that can automatically turn the air up when no one is at home or during nighttime hours.
• Check your insulation- If your insulation is not up to par, you are not only losing air but money out of hidden cracks and openings. Also, take time to caulk around doors and windows that may be letting in a draft.
• Clean your air vents and unit- clogged and dirty air filters reduce air flow and force your system to work even harder. Changing filters, cleaning vents, and walking outside to make sure the central unit is free of dust and debris will save you in the long run.
• Block out the Sun with window treatments- closing the drapes and blinds can reduce the heat coming into your home. Some can reduce heat by 45% during the scorching hot Summer months.

These are just some of the great ways to keep your power bill from skyrocketing this Summer. Making sure your house has the most efficient electrical work is another way. Schedule an electrical inspection by John's Electric today!