MADISON (WKOW) – Madison Gas and Electric (MGE) has some tips and wants to dispel some energy myths to keep your home cool during the heat wave.
Air conditioning makes up about 8 percent of a consumer's total energy bill, according to Madison Gas and Electric's Media Relations Manager Steve Kraus.
Here are two myths Kraus wants to dispel:
Question: It costs me more to cool my house after letting it get warmer when no one is home.
Answer: False. Krause says the longer your home remains warmer, the more electricity you save. If you're going to be away from home for a couple hours or more, you should turn off your air conditioner to save on energy costs.
Question: My house will cool down faster the colder I set the thermostat.
Answer: False. Krause says the thermostat is not like the gas pedal on a car. It's either cooling or not. Setting the thermostat too low will likely overshoot the desired temperature, wasting energy.
Here are some tips to stay cool and keep your energy costs low:
- Set the thermostat at 78 degrees or higher
- Close shades on the drapes
- Cook outside or with a microwave
- Use a programmable thermostat for central air, timer for window units
- Control internal moisture from cooking and bathrooms
- Turn off appliances, computers, TV's, lighting when not in use
- Check furnace filter once a month
Krause says depending on the size of your home and how many tips you follow to keep cool during the heat wave will determine how much money you can save on energy costs.
