Hot weather tips can help you stay cool and save money too

Hot weather tips can help you stay cool and save money too

When temperatures soar, Tampa Electric urges you to take precautions when going out in the heat and to limit outdoor activities. If you must go outdoors, heed these hot weather tips and wear light-colored clothing and drink plenty of fluids.

Higher temperatures can also make air conditioners work overtime. This results in increased energy use and higher electric bills. Here are some hot weather tips to help you keep your energy costs under control and stay cool at the same time.

Hot weather tips

1. Set your thermostat to 78 degrees or higher. Every degree below 78 will increase the AC portion of your bill by 6-7%.
2. Check or replace air conditioning and ventilation filters every month.
3. Have your air conditioning and heating systems inspected and serviced once a year.
4. Run ceiling fans in occupied rooms only.
5. Turn off unnecessary lighting. Install compact fluorescent light bulbs (CFLs) or light-emitting diode bulbs (LEDs).
6. Shade windows to block the sun or install reflective material on east and west-facing windows.
7. Make sure your attic is adequately insulated.
8. Limit running pool pumps to eight hours per day.
9. Turn off unused computers and monitors. Unplug electronics, gadgets and chargers.
10. Lower water heater thermostat setting to 120 degrees and turn off if gone from home for more than 2 days.

To help manage your energy costs, join others who have completed our free Online Energy Audit that helps identify ways you can save energy and money. Visit Save Energy for additional savings tips and rebates.