Don’t Let the Summer Heat Burn a Hole in Your Wallet

Don’t let the summer heat burn a hole in your wallet

BBB tips for lowering energy costs

AUSTIN, Texas - June 13, 2012 – It’s summer time in Texas, which means consumers are kicking their AC’s into high gear to stay cool from the heat. To help keep energy costs down, Better Business Bureau recommends consumers stay up-to-date on the latest energy efficient systems, service their AC unit yearly and follow simple do-it-yourself methods.

According to the U.S. Department of Energy, more than half of the energy used in a typical home goes toward heating and cooling it. Americans typically spend about 46 cents of every dollar they pay in utility bills for "space conditioning.”

Here are some ways to cut back on excessive energy use:

1. Consider a new energy-efficient system: By choosing a more energy-efficient system, you may end up spending less money to heat and cool your home.

    · Ask about the EnergyGuide Label. This label explains how much energy an appliance uses compared to others.

2. Perform a home energy assessment: A home energy assessment will look at how efficient your heating and cooling systems are and where your home is wasting energy. This assessment can either be done by a professional or you can choose to do it yourself.

    · If choosing a professional, get at least three references and check out the company at bbb.org.
    · For step-by-step directions on performing a home assessment yourself, visit the DOE’s Office of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy.

3. Simple DIY energy-saving tips: There are other, less costly alternatives that can help consumers save on their energy costs. The following steps can help lower your energy use and  save you money:

    · Keep your system well maintained and service your unit at least once a year. Change air filters on a regular basis.
    · Check your attic, attic stairway, attached garage walls and basement to ensure that you have proper insulation.
    · Get a programmable thermostat, which will allow you to set the thermostat to increase or decrease temperatures as you please.
    · Prune back shrubs that may block airflow to your air conditioner or heat pump.
    · Consider installing ceiling fans. The air circulation promotes cooling in the summer and heating efficiency in the winter.

To check the reliability of a company and find trustworthy businesses, visit bbb.org.

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