How to Prepare Your Home for Summer

When the summer months roll around, some of us think of cranking up the air conditioning and watching our energy bills climb. But staying cool does not have to cost a fortune. Here are six easy and energy-smart ways to keep your home comfortable all summer long:

Boost Your Insulation

Insulation is not just for winter! It works both ways—keeping warm air out in the summer and in during the winter. If your home is well-insulated, your air conditioner will not have to work as hard, which means lower energy bills and a cooler home.

Upgrade Your Windows (or Add Storm Windows)

Windows can let in a lot of heat—up to 30% of your cooling energy can be lost through them! Energy-efficient windows are a great investment, but if new windows are not in the budget, storm windows are a more affordable option that still helps keep the heat out.

Use Window Shades or Trees for Smart Shading

Sunlight streaming through east- and west-facing windows and doors can really heat up your home. Use blinds and curtains, or plant a tree to block out the sun during the hottest parts of the day. It is a simple way to keep rooms cooler without touching the thermostat.

Install a Programmable Thermostat

A smart or programmable thermostat can automatically adjust the temperature when you are not home, so you are not cooling an empty house. Set it a little higher when you are away and lower when you are at home. The closer your indoor temperature is to the outdoor temperature, the more you will save.

Schedule a HVAC Maintenance Appointment

Summer is the perfect time to schedule your HVAC system’s annual maintenance appointment. Clogged vents, leaks, and dirty air filters put strain on your HVAC system, making even the most efficient models struggle to heat and cool your home. Having a certified technician check for poor airflow, install fresh filters, and perform tune-ups on a regular maintenance schedule can help you:

• Heat and cool your home using less energy
• Reduce energy costs
• Avoid breakdowns
• Improve indoor air quality (a must in high humidity climates like Ohio)
• Ensure your system is ready for extreme heat or cold

Use Ceiling and Ventilation Fans

Ceiling fans help circulate air and create a breeze that makes you feel cooler, even if the room temperature stays the same. This means you can set the thermostat a few degrees higher without sacrificing comfort. Do not forget to use exhaust fans in bathrooms, kitchens, and laundry areas.

More Ways to Save and Stay Cool.

If you are an AEP Energy customer, be sure to check out AEP Energy Reward Store^SM– our one-stop online marketplace filled with a variety of energy-saving and connected-home products for your home. As a customer, you earn Reward Dollars to use in AEP Energy Reward Store. Log in to your AEP Energy account to get started. It is a simple and convenient way for you to shop for items to make your home more energy efficient.

Not a customer? You can earn Reward Dollars to use in Reward Store by enrolling in an AEP Energy price plan. One month after your enrollment date, you will start earning Reward Dollars to use towards your purchases in Reward Store.

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