As a July heat wave sets in, Wisconsin Public Service (WPS) is sharing simple ways customers can stay cool while controlling their energy use when temperatures rise about 90 degress across northeast and north central Wisconsin.

No cost tips:

• Shut out the sun — Keep blinds, drapes and curtains closed to stop sunlight from warming up your home.
• Thermostat tune up — Setting a thermostat a few degrees higher will reduce energy use while at home. When asleep, adjust it 7 to 10 degrees higher to increase a home’s energy efficiency even more.
• Set the fan switch to “auto” — A thermostat fan switch on “auto” causes the fan to run only when the cooling system does. Setting the fan to “on” causes it to run all the time.
• Turn down the heat — Delay heat-producing activities such as cooking, clothes drying and ironing until the evening when temperatures are cooler.

Low-cost tips:

• Feel cool with fans — Standalone and ceiling fans can help circulate air, making a room feel cooler. Ceiling fans have a switch that allows them to rotate counterclockwise, pushing down air to make you feel cooler.
• Lock down leaks — Stop cool air from escaping outdoors by sealing cracks and gaps around windows, doors and siding with caulk and weather stripping.
• Install a programmable thermostat — Programmable and smart thermostats can automatically adjust air conditioning for when you are home, away or asleep to help you use energy efficiently.
• Cooling checkup — An annual inspection and tune up of an air conditioner helps it run safely and efficiently. It also can help you stay ahead of future issues.

Energy costs can be managed throughout the year by enrolling in Budget Billing, which evenly spreads energy costs over 12 months, providing a more consistent bill each month. See more ways to use energy efficiently at home by clicking here.