Summer in Central Florida can bring high temperatures, increased air conditioning use and, for many households, higher utility bills. Here are six ways to maintain control of your energy expenses while keeping your home comfortable all summer long.

1. Adjust Your Thermostat

Your air conditioner works hard during the summer months. Try setting your thermostat to 78 degrees or higher. For every degree below 78, cooling costs can increase by 6% to 8%. If 78 degrees feels too warm, try gradually raising your usual setting one degree at a time.

2. Replace Dirty A/C Filters

When air filters become dirty or clogged, airflow decreases and your system must work harder to cool your home. Replacing filters regularly can help improve efficiency, maintain comfort and reduce energy use.

3. Keep the Heat Outside

Use blinds, blackout curtains or heat-blocking window film to reduce heat gain from direct sunlight, especially on windows facing east or west. Keeping sunlight out can help your air conditioner work more efficiently throughout the day.

4. Schedule a Free Home Energy & Water Audit

OUC’s free Home Energy & Water Audit provides recommendations to help improve your home’s efficiency and reduce utility costs. Customers also receive a customized report and may receive conservation kits with energy- and water-saving products.

5. Explore Efficiency Delivered®

If you’re looking for year-round savings, OUC’s Efficiency Delivered® program can help. Qualifying customers can receive up to $2,500 in home efficiency improvements that can save an average of 100 kWh of electricity and 200 gallons of water each month. That can reduce utility costs for the year by nearly $200.

6. Take Advantage of Available Rebates

Making energy-efficient upgrades can help lower your utility costs while improving comfort at home. OUC offers rebates on eligible improvements, including air conditioning systems, windows, water heaters and other efficiency upgrades.

Looking for more ways to save? Explore OUC’s home energy usage fact sheet – or schedule your free Energy & Water Conservation Audit today.