Summer energy efficiency tips

School is about to let out for the summer and the temperature is rising.

Don’t get burned by high energy bills by following these easy to implement energy efficiency tips:

Heating and Cooling

Adjust the temperature –Set the thermostat for your air conditioner or heat pump at the highest comfortable setting. For most people engaged in daily activities, a setting of 78 degrees will be comfortable. Some people desire a cooler home, but each degree the setting is lowered increases the amount of electricity used.

Change the air filters –Change your air filters at least once a month. When filters are dirty, air conditioners work harder and use more energy to keep your home or business comfortable.

Maintain your cooling systems –Have your unit cleaned and checked by a certified Mississippi Power Heating and Cooling Dealer at least once a year for optimum efficiency and performance.

Block external light –Make sure to keep your blinds closed or curtains shut during the day to keep out heat from the sun.

Turn off fans – Make sure to turn fans off when you are not in that room. Fans don’t cool the room, they only cool you by creating a wind chill.

Weatherization

Insulation –Check your insulation and make sure every part of your house is insulated – attic, floors and walls.

Seal air leaks –Air leaks are of the greatest sources of energy loss in homes. Use weather stripping on windows and doors that don’t close tightly. Check around plumbing, light fixtures and switches, windows and doors.

Windows –Use storm windows or double-paned replacement windows to reduce air loss.

Appliances

Dishwasher – Run the dishwasher when it is full, not overloaded. Let dishes air-dry instead of using your dishwasher’s heated dry setting.

Washing machine –Wash full loads and use cold water.

Dryer – Clean the lint screen after every load to maximize efficiency. Use the cool-down cycle to allow load to finish drying with the heat remaining in the dryer.

Cooking – Use small appliances – microwave, crockpot, toaster oven – instead of the oven when possible. Keep the oven door closed while cooking.

Mississippi Power, a subsidiary of Southern Company (NYSE: SO), produces safe, reliable and environmentally responsible energy for more than 188,000 customers in 23 southeast Mississippi counties. With nearly 160 megawatts of approved solar energy capacity, Mississippi Power is the largest partner in providing renewable energy in the state of Mississippi. Visit our website at mississippipower.com, like us on Facebook, and follow us on Twitter, LinkedIn, and YouTube.

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