Posted on by jvelasquez

How Control Your Energy Bills When It’s Hot Outside

Summer brings sunny days, and though we yearn for the warmer weather, when the first heatwave hits we scramble to lower the rising temps that creep indoors. Here are a few tips to help you keep cool this summer:

How Americans Use Electricity. The lates data from the U.S Energy Information Administration shows the combined use of clothes washers and dryers, dishwashers, small appliances and other electrical equipment (noted as "all other uses" below) accounts for the largest percentage of electricity consumption in American homes.Use Ceiling Fans the Right Way

Did you know the base of your ceiling fan has a small switch on it? This changes the direction of the air flow. During the summer that flow should blow forward in a counter-clockwise direction forcing air down and making you feel cooler. 0256910161232

Fire Up the Grill

Take cooking duties outside, so the stove and oven don’t add more heat to an already-warm house.

Don’t let the sunshine in—Using blackout shades, blinds or window tint film can reduce the temperature by up to 15º. 1116721013739

Open Windows at Night & Create Across Breeze

Crack a window on the main floor and open a window on the second floor on the opposite side of the house with a fan that draws the air out. Because heat rises, you’ll soon feel cooler.

Switch to a High-Efficiency Heat Pump

Whether you are considering replacement of your furnace or adding on, heat pumps can significantly reduce your home’s energy bill and provide air conditioning when the thermometer goes up.

The largest part of your home’s electricity use comes from heating and cooling appliances. Rebates from PenLight can help you upgrade to more efficient technologies — saving you money and electricity for years to come. Check out our heat pump rebates under our rebate programs page.