BEAT THE HEAT

This past week’s warm weather is a great reminder that summer is on the way. It also gives us time to prepare ourselves for the dog days of summer, and plan for saving on those high energy bills that accompany them. My friends at JCP&L were very helpful in helping me compile a list of energy saving tips to make those costs more bearable, while keeping us comfortable.

Turn off a room air conditioner when you leave for several hours. You will use less energy when you cool the room later. Consider a setback thermostat, which helps you control energy use.

Clean or replace air-conditioning filters at least once a month.

Close windows, window blinds and doors in the daytime to keep out the heat.

If you replace appliances, consider getting energy-efficient appliances with the Energy Star logo. Visit www.energystar.gov.

Move any furniture, draperies or other obstructions that may be blocking the flow of cool air from registers or individual air-conditioning units.

If you have a central air conditioner, make sure you close the air-supply registers to rooms that are not in use.

Keep lamps, televisions or other appliances that produce heat during their operation away from air conditioner thermostats. Their heat can cause the air conditioner to run longer than necessary.

Plant trees or shrubs near an air-conditioning unit where they can shield sunlight without blocking airflow or access to the unit for maintenance.

When using a window air conditioner, spread the cooled air using an interior fan.

Consider using an electric fan instead of an air conditioner while sleeping. The gentle flow of air from an electric fan can help cool your body by speeding the evaporation of the moisture on your skin. An electric fan is less expensive to run – and to purchase- than an air conditioner.

With these few simple tips you can enjoy the summer without cringing when that energy bill arrives. For more energy-saving tips, please visit the FirstEnergy web site at www.firstenergycopr.com.