Tips proposed to reduce electricity bill as heatwave persists

A heat wave persists in southeast Michigan, potentially leading to higher electricity bills as fans and air conditioners work overtime.

Managing your consumption when the weather turns hot and humid is essential to controlling your energy costs, according to a release from DTE Energy.

DTE offers these tips:

– Shade your house. Close curtains and blinds on windows exposed to the sun.

– Use a fan correctly. It cools people, not rooms, so use it to create

a breeze and turn it off when you leave the room to save energy.

– Use your household appliances in the evening. Postpone doing laundry or running the dishwasher until later in the day, once outside temperatures begin to cool, to avoid adding heat to your home.

– Optimize your air conditioner. Keep it free of debris and the filter clean to reduce pressure on the unit. It is best to clean or change your filter once every three months.

– Raise your thermostat a few degrees before leaving the house.