Utility experts recommend setting thermostats near 78 degrees when possible.
Temperatures across the Tennessee Valley are starting to climb, and for many families that also means higher power bills.
Utility experts say a few small changes around the house can make a big difference when it comes to your energy bill. As the summer heat starts to set in, many people are turning the air conditioning down to stay comfortable.
Decatur Utilities says your cooling system and water heater are two of the biggest energy users inside your home. They recommend setting your thermostat to around 78 degrees when possible to help keep your system from working overtime during those triple-digit days.
Keeping your water heater set to 120 degrees can also help cut back on energy use while still providing plenty of hot water for your home.
Utility officials say small changes around the house can also make a big difference.
Setting ceiling fans to rotate counterclockwise during the summer creates a wind-chill effect that can make rooms feel cooler.
They also recommend keeping blinds and curtains closed during the hottest part of the day to help block out extra heat from the sun. When it comes to cooking or doing laundry, experts suggest waiting until later in the evening to use ovens and dryers so your home does not heat up even more during the afternoon.
"Typically a heat pump, central heating and cooling system is designed to overcome about 20 degrees difference, so you can imagine if it is 100 degrees outside and your asking it to keep the house at 62, your asking it to do a lot of work and the more it has to work the more energy it has to use and that means the higher your bill is going to be in the end," said Joe Holmes from Decatur Utilities.
Checking windows and doors for air leaks, along with making sure they are properly caulked and weather sealed, can also help keep cool air inside and hot air out.
One of the easiest things homeowners can do is change their HVAC filters regularly. Experts say dirty filters force your system to work harder, which can drive up energy costs throughout the summer.
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