Keeping Your Cool
Apr 23, 2013
- When the time is right, replace your old heating and cooling system with a high-efficiency unit. And consider a geothermal system, which is about 200% more efficient and may qualify for low-interest financing.
- Up to a third of your electric bill can come from air leakage alone. So check windows and doors, then insulate, caulk and weatherstrip.
- Make sure attics and walls are properly insulated. Adding insulation in your attic is one of the most cost-effective do-it-yourself savings measures.
- The key to cooling is air flow, so clean or change air conditioner filters monthly. Make sure that air vents are clear of furniture or anything that obstructs air flow.
- Use fans to assist air flow. A ceiling fan uses about as much electricity as a lightbulb, and much less than an air conditioner.
- In summer, set thermostats at the highest comfortable temperature – 76 degrees or higher. Each degree a thermostat is lowered can add 3%-4% to cooling costs.
- In winter, leave the thermostat at a comfortable setting. Your home won't warm any faster if you raise the thermostat setting.
For more energy-saving tips and money-saving projects, visit www.oge.com or call an OG&E specialist at 1-800-272-9741.
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