Community Corner

What's Your A/C Set At? Tips to Stay Cool and Save Cash

DTE Energy recommends customers only use their air conditioners for temperatures 78 degrees and higher if they want optimum energy savings.

As outside temperatures creep ever higher, thermostat settings tend to go in the opposite direction, meaning higher energy bills for local residents.

Macomb Patch recently asked readers on Facebook to share their thermostat's "cool" settings. While Patch readers reported their settings ranged anywhere from 64 to 80 degrees, DTE Energy recommends customers only use their air conditioners for temperatures 78 degrees and higher if they want optimum energy savings.

In summer, home cooling typically accounts for up to half a customer's energy costs, according to DTE Energy. 

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So to keep those costs as low as possible, while at the same time keeping cool in the summer heat, here are a few tips from DTE Energy:

  • Don’t turn your air conditioning off when you leave the house. Heat build-up in the walls and furniture makes it harder for your system to remove the heat when you return. Instead, set the temperature up five to ten degrees, but not off.
  • Use an exhaust fan to blow hot air out of your kitchen while cooling. You’ll save more in cooling costs than the electricity to run the fan.
  • Cook outside on the grill instead of using the oven whenever possible.
  • Run the dishwasher in the evening when the outside air is cooler.
  • Let dishes air dry in the dishwasher rather than using the drying feature.
  • Shade your air conditioner. Direct sunshine decreases its efficiency. A well-placed tree or awning will shade and protect the unit.
  • Minimize the number of times that outside doors are opened and closed. Hot air from outside enters your home every time the doors open.
  • Keep window coverings closed during the day to prevent solar gain.

To find the best setting to save the most energy and money for your home, check out the thermostat calculator on the DTE Energy website.

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