Many Arizonans have the air conditioners going non-stop during the summer.
Recently, Valley electric companies SRP and APS stated they’d broken records for the most power usage in a day. That means many customers can expect some hefty bills but there are things you can do to reduce the energy you use.
Plug-in fans can help keep you cool so the thermostat can go up a couple of degrees.
APS officials say raising the thermostat by just one degree can save about 2 to 3 percent on the cost.
Also, don't leave the exhaust fans running in the bathroom.
Cooking at home can cost you, so try firing up the grill instead of the stove. If you do cook indoors, turn off the exhaust fan when you're done.
Another way to save is to close the blinds or cover up those windows. SRP Spokeswoman Patty Garcia-Likens says, “more than half of your heat that comes into your home comes through your windows so we would advise using curtains, draperies, shutters to seal off your home from the heat that's coming in."
The single biggest thing you can do is pay attention to your air-conditioning unit. Maybe you’re leaving town to escape the heat. Crank up the thermostat to 85 degrees. Experts also say to leave those air vents in your house wide open. If not -- your air conditioner has to do more work.
