Five ways to beat the heat, June 26

News release from Pacific Power. With forecasts predicting triple-digit temperatures throughout the Northwest over the next week, Pacific Power wants to remind customers to stay safe and use these tips to beat the heat, use less energy and save money. Be air conditioner smart – * Set your thermostat at 78 degrees. This will keep you comfortable and cooling your house below that temperature can increase your air conditioning bill as much as 8 percent. * Don’t turn off the air conditioner when you’re gone; instead set it higher, at 85 degrees. That setting allows your air conditioner to use less electricity to cool the house than if the air conditioning has been off all day, but doesn’t shut down altogether. * Use an air conditioner timer or programmable thermostat; set it to start bringing your home’s temperature from 85 degrees down to 78 degrees no more than 30 minutes before you get home. * Replace air conditioner now before hot spell sets in, then once a month. The dirtier your filter, the less efficient it is. * Lamps, televisions or any other appliance that creates heat needs to be kept away from the thermostat; they will impact its accuracy. * Your air conditioner will operate most efficiently if you trim nearby foliage to allow adequate air flow around the unit. * Don’t block inside distribution vents with furniture or other objects. Don’t let the sun shine in – * On warm days, close blinds and drapes, especially in south-facing windows which allow in the most heat. Open windows in the evening and circulate cool air – * Open windows in evening and early morning to let in cool air. Be aware, however, of any safety or security issues. * Use fans to bring in and circulate cool air. Ceiling and window fans use less electricity than an air conditioner when the compressor is engaged. Running an air conditioner in fan-only mode can also be effective as outside temperatures drop. Reduce the heat inside – * Use heat-producing appliances like ovens, dishwashers and dryers in the early morning or late evening when temperatures are cooler. * Grill outside or use a microwave or toaster oven. A toaster oven uses one-third to one-half as much energy as a regular oven and releases less heat into the home. * Turn off heat-generating devices when not in use, including lamps, televisions and computers. Think for the long term – * Plant deciduous trees to shade the south side of your house. Well-placed trees can reduce cooling needs as much as 20 percent, and an air conditioner operating in the shade can use as much as 10 percent less electricity. * Insulate floors, walls and attics to keep cooler in summer and warmer in winter. Seal and insulate air conditioning ducts that run through unconditioned spaces. * Get your air conditioner tuned up annually. * Consider a new air conditioner, heat pump and other appliances — new models are more efficient and may lower your electric bill. Look for ENERGY STAR appliances. For more information and tips, visit bewattsmart.com.