Ways to Save
Seasonal Tips
No matter the season, using less energy is always possible.
Spring & Summer Tips
Thermostat
Set your thermostat to 78 degrees in spring and summer to use less energy.
Ceiling Fan
Turn on ceiling fans when you are in a room and set them to run counterclockwise to help cool rooms. Turn off the fan when you leave the room.
Dryer
Avoid running the clothes dryer during the heat of the day in hot weather. Dryers generate heat which makes your HVAC unit work harder.
Additional Tips
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Have your air conditioning unit serviced to make sure it is running efficiently.
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Change your air filters regularly. Set a monthly reminder. Dirty air filters make your unit work harder.
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Make sure HVAC vents are not blocked and are fully opened.
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Close drapes and blinds during the heat of the day to keep the sun’s rays from beaming into your home. Close garage doors also.
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Use light-colored blinds and drapes with a liner.
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Seal cracks in windows, doors, and other areas where air can enter or exit your home.
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Use exhaust fans in the kitchen and bathroom to get rid of excess heat and moisture. Remember to turn them off.
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Limit opening and closing exterior doors, which allows hot air into your cool home.
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Hang clothes and sheets outside and let the sun and warm weather dry them naturally.
Fall & Winter Tips
Thermostat
Set your thermostat to 68 degrees during the day in fall and winter to use less energy. You can set it even cooler at night while you are sleeping.
Socks
Wear socks to keep your feet warm, especially when walking on bare floors.
Drapes (or blinds)
Open drapes or blinds during the day and let the sun help heat your home. Close drapes and blinds on the side of your house that is shaded and at night.
Additional Tips
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If you have a programmable thermostat, set it to increase the temperature 10-15 minutes before your alarm goes off to break the chill before you get up.
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Use a heavier blanket or an electric blanket on super cold nights.
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Run your ceiling fans in the clockwise direction to pull the heated air down to where you are.
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Close garage doors to keep wind outside.
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Use space heaters sparingly, if at all. Make sure the unit is thermostat-controlled. Only use a space heater if you are in the room and turn it off when you leave; this is for energy efficiency and safety reasons.
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Keep the fireplace flue closed when the fireplace is not being used.
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Make sure your fireplace is designed to provide heat, so it truly keeps you and your room warm. Heated air can escape through the chimney, which means you are losing money and efficiency.
Comfort Advantage is a recognized standard for energy-efficient construction and quality products for the home and business. The benefits of Comfort Advantage are promoted by electric cooperatives who provide electric service to more than 400,000 Mississippi homes and businesses.