Summer Energy-Saving Tips

Going green may be trendy, but it can also help you save money on your energy bills, especially during the warm weather months, when you’re running your air conditioning! Read M & R Vertical Blinds’ tips and cut your bills this summer.

• Window units should be used in contained areas only, as they can’t compete with the efficiency of central air. Keep the fan speed on high most of the time, but on humid days keep it on low (it will remove more moisture).

• Even if you’re only going to be away for a few hours, turn off the AC. If you have a programmable thermostat, set it to turn on 30 minutes before you return home. Note: don’t do this if you have pets!

• Replace high-use bulbs with compact fluorescent light bulbs (CFLs). Incandescent bulbs put more energy into generating heat than light, while CFLs, burn cool and bright with 1/3 of the power.

• Avoid peak energy rates by running appliances like dishwashers at night. They emit humid heat as well.

• Whenever you can, unplug small appliances like computers and cell phone chargers. They use power and radiate heat even when turned off.

Check back for more tips and tricks about window treatments, home solutions and more.