Tips on staying cool while keeping your bills down during extreme heat

(ABC 6 News) – Xcel Energy is issuing tips on how to not only stay cool, but keep your costs down during extreme heat.

• Use your blinds or curtains to regulate the temperature in your home – close them on hot days to keep the heat out.
• Make sure exterior doors are fully closed – exterior doors that are left cracked open or not latched can lead to a loss of cooling in the home.
• Use ceiling fans to your advantage – ceiling fans use less energy than air conditioning and can help cool a room during warmer days and should run counter – clockwise in the summer to circulate cooler air.
• Have air conditioner coils cleaned – cleaned and maintained air conditioners improve efficiency and help save energy.
• Upgrade your thermostat – a programmable thermostat will let you set the temperature in your home to use less energy when you’re away. A smart thermostat will allow you to control the temperature when you’re away.

Click here for more tips and information from Xcel Energy