Saving energy in the middle of summer is no sweat

Well, it’s July, and that means summertime heat. And that could mean a higher monthly energy bill thanks to extra hours for your air conditioner. Here are a few suggestions to help reduce energy usage and save you a little cash. 

• Keep cool air from escaping – weather-strip, seal and caulk doors and windows to prevent leaks. 
• Set your thermostat to 78 degrees Fahrenheit – you can save 3–5% on air conditioning costs for each degree it’s raised. 
• Check your air filter – make sure it’s clean and replace per manufacturer’s instructions.
• Put the stove and oven on hiatus – use the microwave more or, better yet, make sandwiches and go on a picnic or grill out. (See a recipe elsewhere in this newsletter.) 
• Keep curtains, shades and blinds closed during the hottest part of the day. 
• Give the dryer a rest – line-dry clothes outdoors when you can. 
• Save on pool maintenance – reduce the amount of time your filter and automatic pool cleaner operate to no more than five hours. 
• Check out lge-ku.com/programs for more energy-saving tips.