As summer temperatures rise, you and your family may find energy bills increasing due to higher cooling demands. With the summer season winding down, there’s still time to enhance your home’s comfort and energy efficiency before cold weather arrives. Here are five easy tips to help use less energy:

1. Turn Off and Unplug: Switch off lights, televisions, and unplug electronic devices and appliances when they’re not in use.
2. Close Curtains and Blinds: Block out the sun’s heat by closing curtains or blinds. This helps your air conditioning work more efficiently.
3. Use Alternative Cooking Methods: Reduce kitchen heat by using a microwave or outdoor grill instead of the stove or oven.
4. Improve Airflow: Keep vents clear of furniture and rugs to ensure proper airflow. Clean or replace your air conditioner filter to maintain peak performance.
5. Optimize Ceiling Fans: Set ceiling fans to rotate counterclockwise to create a cooling effect. Remember, fans cool people, not rooms, so use them only when the room is occupied.

For additional year-round savings, PECO offers programs and tools to help you reduce energy use and costs:

Schedule an Energy Assessment

A PECO energy advisor can identify energy-wasting areas in your home and suggest improvements. They will also install free energy-saving products and provide a personalized report with tips to reduce energy costs by up to 20 percent annually. You may also qualify for exclusive rebates on HVAC equipment and weatherization. Schedule your PECO Energy Assessment.

Install a Smart Thermostat

A programmable thermostat can save you up to 10 percent annually on energy costs, according to Energy.gov. Set it to 78 degrees during the day when you’re home, and increase it to 83 degrees when you’re away or asleep.

Free Energy Checkups for Eligible Customers

If you meet income requirements, you might qualify for a Free Energy Checkup from PECO. This includes a home visit from an energy advisor who will install no-cost energy-saving products. Check if you income-qualify for a Free Energy Checkup from PECO.

Get Instant Discounts on Energy-Saving Products

PECO customers can enjoy instant discounts on smart thermostats from brands like Google, Honeywell, and Emerson through the PECO Marketplace. Plus, get free shipping on orders over $35 at PECO Marketplace.

Maintain Your Cooling System

Talk to you contractor to ensure your HVAC system is well-maintained. A trained technician can perform an annual tune-up and identify any potential issues. This includes cleaning the condenser and checking refrigerant levels. It’s also a good time to service your heating system to prepare for colder weather.

Save on Water Heating

Water heating accounts for about 14 percent of a typical home’s energy use. Reduce hot water consumption by installing faucet aerators and efficient showerheads, and set your water heater to 120 degrees. If your water heater is 10-12 years old, consider upgrading to an ENERGY STAR certified model and check for PECO rebates to help with installation costs.

Make a difference in your home’s comfort and energy efficiency with these tips and PECO’s energy-saving programs. Start your energy-efficiency journey today at PECO.