Mother Nature is packing heat and humidity this week putting a pinch on our energy efficiency.
LES Energy Services Specialist Jay Stoa tells KLIN News says your air conditioner may not be running up to speed.
“You really should check the furnace filter and make sure it’s not plugged and a plugged filter is just going to make it work harder and work longer than it needs to using more energy.”
Stoa says the higher you set your thermostat, you’ll save 3 to 5 percent in cooling costs.
“If you’re trying to keep it below 75 or even 72 it’s not going to get there, it’s going to use a lot more energy since the air conditioner is running all the time.”
Stoa says when temperatures are in the mid-90s or higher, air conditioners are set to efficiently maintain 75 degrees in your home.
He added window drapes should always be shut to avoid unwanted warming along with another unthought-of trick.
“If you have an older home, check your attic insulation because that can also have a big solar gain during the summer months.”
Temperatures are expected to reach into the mid to upper 90s parts of this week and next.