How to save money while keeping your home cool this summer

Well, tomorrow is expected to be our hottest day so far of the year, and electric bills are surging with this heat. Elsa Gillis explains The Consumer Reports has some suggestions to save you money on your bill. As our heat wave drags on, it becomes more and more difficult to keep your home cool. You're going to use more energy and spend more money to keep the same amount of space just as cool. Consumer Reports has some suggestions. First, turn up your thermostat. You can save 10% a year on heating and cooling by adjusting your thermostat 7 to 10° for 8 hours a day. The question is, can you do that? If you do convince your family to turn up the AC, using a ceiling fan or box fan can make up the difference. Running one will actually make the room feel as much as 4 or even 5° cooler. Next, consider a smart or programmable thermostat, which can make it easy to set a schedule that cut costs and conserves energy. Using a programmable thermostat is really the most effective way to save money, and it'll even help you save money on heating bills in the winter. Also check your centrally. See for any ducts that might be leaking and fill in any holes or cracks around your windows and doors. Insulate around window air conditioners to keep warm air out and cool air in. Finally, close curtains and blinds during the day to keep the sun from heating your home. Regardless, never sacrifice safety for savings. Elsa Gillis Channel 9 Eyewitness News You can also say by not using your full-sized oven, if you don't have to, microwave or toaster will not generate as much heat and make it less difficult to keep your heart.